Over 100 people were at the Batoche Festival Grounds on Thursday morning following an invitation from the Metis Nation of Saskatchewan.

Wildfire evacuees are being offered trapper tents outfitted with cots, wi-fi service to maintain contact with family, as well as traditional food and cultural activities.

“The Batoche grounds are open to anyone who needs a safe place,” said Glen McCallum, president of the Metis Nation of Saskatchewan. “Wildfires have no borders, and we’re not going to create borders.”

Anyone wanting to assist the Batoche emergency relief effort, a donation centre has been established at the CUMFI office on 315 Avenue M South. High priority needs are tooth brushes, tooth paste, diapers, baby wipes, baby formula and clean bedding.