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As a cold wave descends on Montreal this weekend, the city is opening emergency shelter resources for people experiencing homelessness. The Red Cross was called upon to contribute — and answered the call.

James Spooner is a Canadian Red Cross Information Technology & Telecommunications (ITT) expert with more than 35 years of experience. He was most recently in Jamaica, supporting the Hurricane Melissa response.

There is something incredible about a group of humanitarians coming together for a common cause. Not only do we learn the needs and the work being done, but we see how to create greater impact as a humanitarian community, and show solidarity for staff and volunteers working tirelessly to reduce suffering.

Staying prepared shouldn’t be complicated. A Medical Emergency Information (MEI) tag is a no-tech, no-fail tool that stores your critical health details and emergency contacts directly on your personal gear. It’s designed to help first responders and loved ones act quickly—even when you can’t speak for yourself.

Being prepared can make a tremendous difference in an emergency. A Medical Emergency Information tag is a simple yet effective tool. It enables emergency professionals to make quick, informed decisions—which can help save lives. 

As extreme weather events become more frequent in Canada, knowing how to respond in an emergency is more important than ever. From scorching heat waves to dangerous cold snaps, wildfires, and severe storms, climate change is increasing the risk of injuries and health complications. 

From coordinating supplies, the vehicle fleet and laundry runs, to solving unexpected challenges daily, the Logistics Field Operations Team (FOT) makes sure everyone gets what they need during the 2025 Manitoba Wildfires response. Their work may be behind the scenes, but it is a cornerstone of every successful operation with the Canadian Red Cross.

Self-care isn’t just about taking bubble baths or unplugging once in a while—it’s about building long-term habits that protect your mental and emotional well-being. One of the most effective tools for this is Psychological First Aid (PFA). It helps you understand stress, build resilience, and take control of your well-being every day.