Supporting municipalities, provinces and territories

You don’t have ordinary days. Neither do we.

What may be exceptional for most is typical for us. We are part of the International Red Cross Movement – the world’s largest disaster preparedness and response network. Regardless of the type or scale of a disaster, we can help you and your community prepare, respond and recover.  Red Cross has agreements with over a thousand municipalities and eight provinces and territories across Canada. The Canadian Red Cross is a registered charity and not part of the Canadian government. Learn more»

Disaster preparedness

Disasters and health emergencies can strike quickly and without warning. Communities with up-to-date, comprehensive emergency plans can manage crises better and recover more quickly. The Canadian Red Cross has been engaged in disaster planning by hundreds of communities. We help identify risks among vulnerable populations, resolve gaps, and educate your citizens to support your development of an effective emergency plan.

Disaster response

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.

Shelter and Reception Centre Management

A safe and temporary location may be opened by authorities, supported by the Red Cross, during a disaster to support evacuees with the six Emergency Social Services:

• 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 first aid, 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.

Disaster recovery

Disasters leave long-term impacts in their wake. Government assistance programs and insurance policies address most needs. Communities can call on the Red Cross to focus on assisting those with the least capacity – those living in poverty or who are otherwise most vulnerable as a result of the disaster. 

Take an important step to strengthen your emergency plan. Contact your nearest Canadian Red Cross office. You can’t predict disasters, but you can be better prepared by partnering with us.