More than $400,000 has been given to Babine Forest Products employees by the Burns Lake Tragedy Fund Society during the five months following the sawmill tragedy.
The fund started from donations that flowed in from around the world and there is now approximately $200,000 remaining in the fund.
Spokesperson for the fund, Laura Blackwell said, "We are still trying our very best to get money out in a timely fashion. Sometimes we run into problems, such as the applications are not completely filled out. We then have to call the applicant and ask some follow up questions, which delays approval."
The committee meets every Thursday and goes through applications. Blackwell said once the application is okayed, a cheque is mailed to the applicant shortly after.
"If there is anyone who has not filled out a release form, we must have that in hand before we can send any money to them. Also if any applicant is denied, it may be because they have found temporary work. If this is the case, the applicant can reapply later, when their circumstances have changed," she said.
The committee is still asking people to be patient with the process. "We are all volunteers for this job and it is a very time consuming position. Not only do we want to show due diligence to the workers, but also to the donors."
Blackwell said the committee has received lots of support from various people. "Anne Curry from Babine Forest Products has been great helping us and the workers with the process."
Committee members say they also appreciate the support of the Bulkley Valley Credit Union (BVCU) Lakes District branch. "The BVCU has been so helpful in being the pick up and drop off location for applications. Sandy Dore, branch manger has been a huge help to the tragedy fund," Blackwell added.
Applications can be downloaded online and can be accessed at www.burnslaketragedyfund.org.
If you would like to make a donation to the Burns Lake Tragedy Fund, an account has been set up at any CIBC bank across Canada or you can send a cheque to Burns Lake Tragedy Fund Society, c/o Village of Burns Lake, Box 570, Burns Lake, B.C., V0J 1E0. Tax receipts are available upon request.