Disaster Response (Page 9)

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Five inspiring stories mark five years of resilience and progress after Alberta wildfires

Disasters affect people in different ways, but it is clear that hope, gratitude and determination prevail in stories of the devastating 2016 wildfires in Fort McMurray and the surrounding region. There are many stories of people helping people in the region, but the five following stories showcase the power of humanity at its best.

Fort McMurray and Area Floods: One Year Update

Two Red Cross team members standing in a tent talking to a resident of Fort McMurray

When spring flooding forced thousands to leave their homes in northern Alberta last year, seniors living in downtown Fort McMurray were hit hard. Luana Bussieres, executive director of St. Aidan’s Society in Fort McMurray, says the organization is grateful for the support offered by the Red Cross to help seniors along their path to recovery after the flooding.

Two Red Cross team members standing in a tent talking to a resident of Fort McMurray

From fires to floods: Military veteran continues to serve personal disaster assistance in Ontario

Bernard standing in a cap, mask and red vest

A four decades-long military career taught Bernard St-Laurent the importance of service to others. Since retiring from the military eleven years ago, Bernard has shifted his focus to volunteering with the Canadian Red Cross. Bernard says he has witnessed firsthand the power of the Red Cross, at home and abroad, to help people and communities in times of need.

Bernard standing in a cap, mask and red vest

“Follow my voice” - Chantale Bilodeau’s story

Picture of Chantale Bilodeau

After nearly losing her life in a fire and helplessly looking on as a man died of a heart attack, Chantale Bilodeau began volunteering with the Red Cross. Chantale has spent the last 12 years working for the organization she cares so deeply about and is now sharing her remarkable story.

Picture of Chantale Bilodeau

Nanaimo group helps community members connect with nature during the pandemic

Getting outside during the COVID-19 pandemic can be a boon for both body and mind, but not everyone is lucky enough to live near nature or have the means to get there. That’s why Altrusa International of Nanaimo decided to distribute bus tickets and maps to people in need - along with masks and hand sanitizer - to help them connect with the outdoors.

Coaching through a crisis

Two Red Cross workers walk past a Red Cross vehicle.

Can you think about the last time you started a new job? How everything was new for you, processes were confusing. Now, imagine that this new job is responding to the resurgence of Ebola in a neighbouring country during a pandemic. This is the tough job Jimmy Zaka Mansongele had to face when he was sent to the Republic of Congo as an Operations Manager for the International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC).

Two Red Cross workers walk past a Red Cross vehicle.

Remembering Ted Itani, dedicated humanitarian and Red Cross volunteer

Ted in sunglasses and Red Cross red vest

This past week, Canadian Red Cross lost one of our long-time and beloved volunteers, Ted Itani. Throughout his life, Ted’s contributions to humanitarian work were truly extraordinary.

Ted in sunglasses and Red Cross red vest

An unexpected journey to a rewarding role at the Canadian Red Cross

Ololade (Lola) Ogunsuyi has discovered her niche working with the Canadian Red Cross as a site manager, supporting residents and staff at long-term care homes in Ontario. With her penchant for sharing knowledge and solving problems, Lola has instilled confidence in teams as they work to turn the tide against COVID-19.

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About The Blog

The purpose of this blog, quite simply, is to talk. This blog is an opportunity for Red Cross staff, volunteers, supporters and friends to share stories about what is happening in your community and the important work you are doing. It is a tool that will help keep all of us connected.

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