What may be exceptional for most is typical for us. When disaster strikes, public safety is paramount. However, the response can quickly deplete a community's resources. The Canadian Red Cross works in collaboration with local authorities and other agencies to address the immediate needs of those affected. Emergency social services are delivered by volunteers and staff, all trained to national standards. Red Cross teams are on call 24 hours a day. The Canadian Red Cross is a registered charity and not part of the Canadian government.
When major disasters strike in Manitoba - the Red Cross is there to help pick up the pieces.
During a disaster Red Cross provides:
Family reunification: The chaos and confusion that accompany emergencies and natural disasters can separate families when they need each other most. Red Cross helps people re-establish contact with immediate family members after separation due to natural disasters and other humanitarian crises.
Emergency Lodging: After a disaster or emergency, safe, temporary lodging is provided to persons who cannot return home and cannot find alternate accommodations.
Reception and Information: The purpose of the Reception and Information Services is to greet evacuees, provide information regarding services provided within the centre and provide access control to the facility.
Emergency food: Food is provided to evacuees, emergency workers and disaster volunteers through various means which may include vouchers, meals at a shelter, or referral to another agency.
Emergency clothing: We provide evacuees access to basic clothing through various means which may include purchasing, providing vouchers or referral to other agencies.
Personal services: Personal Services offers temporary care for unattended children and dependent elderly, provides or arranges for provision of material assistance, and offers emotional support to people with needs created or aggravated by a disaster.
After a disaster Red Cross:
works closely with Government and other disaster recovery agencies to ensure all needs are met.
Provides assistance on a case by case basis, and covers needs not loss.
Red Cross help can include information, vouchers for food, basic repairs, household goods, occupational needs and clean up kits equipped with general cleaning supplies, and referrals as necessary.
Personal Disaster Assistance
When families are affected by a house fire, or other small scale disaster, the Red Cross provides food, shelter, clothing and essential supplies for up to 72 hours.
Important toll-free numbers:
Assistance with Personal Disasters, such as house fires: 1-888-800-6493
Reunification with your family/Registration after a large disaster: 1-888-662-3211
Recovery Assistance and Information Line: 1-888-662-3211
Want to help?
The best way to support Canadian Red Cross disaster responses in Canada or around the world is through a financial donation. This gives us maximum flexibility to obtain exactly what relief materials we need, when and where they are needed. We do not accept donations from individuals of items like food, clothing or toys. Click here to donate now. If you are interested in volunteering with the Red Cross, please visit our volunteering page or call 204-982-7330 for more information.
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.
