Voluntary sector in health emergencies
In the coming decades, Canada can expect more severe storms, more flooding and possible influenza pandemics. But according to the latest research, there are gaps in our disaster safety net, especially for the security of millions of vulnerable Canadians served by the voluntary sector.
At present, governments depend heavily on the voluntary sector for emergency response expertise, specialized skills and resources, and an ability to quickly adapt and respond to emerging situations. The voluntary sector is therefore already an essential part of emergency response systems. It has capacities that the public authorities lack and may require in the event of a health emergency, including the ability to mobilize volunteers, access local contacts and networks, and utilize acquired knowledge about the community. The sector also offers practical experience in logistics, communications, and event management.
For more information on voluntary sector organization preparedness, please visit the Ready for Crisis website.
Red Cross publications on organizational preparedness:
- Voluntary Sector Framework for Health Emergencies 2nd edition (PDF, 800kb)
- Maintaining the Passion: Sustaining the Emergency Response Episodic Volunteer (PDF, 600kb)
- Integrating Emergency Management and High-Risk Populations (PDF, 800kb)
You Make the Difference – Support Canadians Affected by Disasters
From house fires to forest fires, hurricanes to floods, the Canadian Red Cross is there for more than 20,000 Canadians who are affected by disasters each year. Please donate to the Canadian Red Cross Fund.
