Today is World Humanitarian Day and to celebrate we're sharing a day in the life of a Red Cross humanitarian aid worker.

These photos offer a glimpse into a day in the life of IFRC aid worker Jamie LeSueur, a Canadian who is working in Zimbabwe in response to the food crisis. 

August 19 is World Humanitarian Day, and we’re celebrating the work of Canadian Red Cross humanitarians. Whether responding to emergencies, helping to rebuild following disasters, or assisting in strengthening communities around the world – these people work tirelessly! Medical practitioners, engineers, electricians, social workers and more support humanitarian efforts. Here are just a few of the blog posts from the last year that look at the work of Canadian Red Cross humanitarians.

It’s that time again: the summer Olympics are here! Known for bringing both triumph and tears for athletes around the world, the location of the 2016 Games is also raising concerns about the Zika. While the World Health Organization (WHO) has said the Rio Olympics will not alter the international spread of Zika, efforts to limit the virus’s effects across the region remain as important as ever.

The Canadian Red Cross is known for providing emergency medical care after international disasters. What tends to be less known are the other kinds of support the Red Cross provides to those who may not be physically injured, but still require assistance. 

When the time came to evacuate his Abasand home due to the wildfire, Dan Edwards had only a few moments to grab the essentials - luckily, he was prepared with his emergency kit for a moment just like this. 

At the Wood Buffalo Regional Library, Librarian Nicole Greville meets with a group of Fort McMurray residents to practice English conversation over coffee and snacks.
 
It’s been more than two months since the ESL group last met and the room is abuzz with conversation. After all, there’s a lot to catch up on.

Update: The Be Ready app is no longer supported as of the end of 2020. Find out apps and resources for up-to-date information and alerts. 

 

The Fort McMurray area is home to almost 90,000 people. Each of them has their own experience and story after May’s wildfires tore through the region. That’s why Red Cross case workers continue to meet with families and individuals to talk through their personal needs and find effective ways to assist. Reaching those people means working alongside community groups like the Nistawoyou Association Friendship Centre. The Canadian Red Cross is partnering with the Centre to help connect with aboriginal residents.