The Canadian Red Cross provides winter weather relief to those in need in Ontario

Canada can be a bitingly cold place during the winter, with some regions receiving well over 100 centimeters of snow annually. Emergencies and disasters become more common in extreme weather. In December 2013, Ontario was hit by ice storms that led to power and heat loss for thousands of residents across the province.

With power outages across Ontario - including the greater Toronto area, York, Durham, Halton and Wellington - the Canadian Red Cross jumped into action. Over the course of the December holidays, the Red Cross helped operate warming shelters throughout the province. Nearly 3,200 people registered in the City of Toronto shelters alone. More than 330 Canadian Red Cross disaster responders put in over 9,000 hours of service, providing 20,819 shelter meals, 2,700 hygiene kits and 3,855 blankets to those in need.

Finding comfort during the holidays
A number of Canadians spent their holidays in the shelters that had been set up around Toronto. While not the ideal holiday experience, people found the warm and inviting environment comfortable.

Marcy and her son Damien, 20, and daughter Ashley, 22, as well as Ashley's boyfriend, brought their three Yorkie terriers with them from their apartment, where they had no power or heat. The three dogs were a big hit with the others at the shelter.

"They watched them chase the sock for entertainment. It made us all laugh," Marcy said. "You would be amazed how people here have tried to help each other."

The cold weather persisted throughout the holiday season and into January, and it took up to two weeks for some residents to have their power restored. Thanks to the efforts of Canadian Red Cross disaster responders and volunteers, Ontario residents had a safe and warm holiday. You can help the Canadian Red Cross provide essential assistance - donate today online or at your local Red Cross office.