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Community Defibrillator Program

Instructor using defibrillator in CPR first aid training. Banner promoting application to receive an AED through the Community Defibrillator Program, with Canadian Red Cross and Giant Tiger logos.
Photo: Getty Images Pro

Applications Now Closed

Thank you for your interest in the Giant Tiger and Canadian Red Cross Community Defibrillator Program. We are no longer accepting applications as all available AEDs have been granted. Communities that have been approved will receive a confirmation email and further details shortly.

We appreciate your commitment to community safety and encourage you to explore other first aid and emergency preparedness resources available through the Canadian Red Cross.

Explore First Aid & Safety Resources


Why your community needs an AED

Sudden cardiac arrest can happen anytime, anywhere. Having a publicly accessible AED in your community, alongside trained individuals, supports a faster emergency response and can make the difference in someone's life.


1. CPR + AED is Key

Immediate CPR combined with an AED results in two to three times higher survival rates following cardiac arrest.1

2. AEDs Are Easy to Use

These devices provide clear, step-by-step voice instructions, guiding anyone through the process of delivering a life-saving shock.

3. Empower Your Community

By equipping your community with an AED, you can help create a safer environment and support emergency response when it matters most.


Program highlights

Through the Community Defibrillator Program 2026, your community can:

  • Receive a high-quality AED, to be placed in a central, accessible location.
  • Register the AED for easier public access during emergencies.


Who can apply?

Communities that meet the following criteria:

  • Giant Tiger presence: Your community must be within approximately 100 km of a Giant Tiger store to be eligible.
  • Identified need: Demonstrated need for an AED in your area.
  • Commitment to access: Clear plan to ensure the AED is publicly accessible.
  • Training readiness: At least one person with valid CPR and AED certification from a recognized national agency and the ability to provide proof of certification as part of the application process.


Why Partner with Us?

The Canadian Red Cross is Canada’s leader in first aid education. With over 960,000 Canadians trained each year, we provide the tools and resources communities need to respond confidently in an emergency.

In partnership with Giant Tiger Stores Limited, we’re bringing lifesaving AEDs to communities across the country.

1 Weisfeldt ML, Sitlani CM, Ornato JP, et al. Survival After Application of Automatic External Defibrillators Before Arrival of the Emergency Medical System. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2010;55(16):1713-1720. doi:10.1016/j.jacc.2009.11.077; Survival After Application of Automatic External Defibrillators Before Arrival of the Emergency Medical System