October 26, 2024

Hello everyone!

I am happy to be here with you.

I am truly impressed by your positive attitudes.

Due to the recent wildfires, I know that these last months have been extremely challenging for you and your families.

To see and to feel the warmth of this room is incredible for me. And I really wanted to be here today and to see you because I saw it all on TV. But when you don’t see the people that are affected, it seems to feel different. So for me, it was really important to be here.

For residents at Pine Grove Manor nearby, too, and for so many people in Jasper.

Having to leave one’s home, so suddenly, is deeply overwhelming. It can feel like leaving a part of ourselves behind.

I have never, fortunately, had to go through that. But I can just image how overwhelming it was and how it has been for all of you.

After talking with you today, I am impressed by your ability to recover from hardship.

I know it is difficult and it is a long road ahead. But I see here true camaraderie. The friendships and the families that are here.

Last Summer, the community in Jasper showed tremendous solidarity and resilience.

I want to thank all residents who accepted to leave their home to first responders in such difficult times.

I also want to thank staff, first responders, volunteers and everyone who kept each other safe during the wildfires.

Each act of kindness, each gesture of solidarity brings us closer and makes us stronger.

Take care of yourselves. I wish you good health and a wonderful day.