The progress in Alberta: Recovery and restoration

In June 2013, Alberta experienced heavy rainfall triggering catastrophic flooding.  Over 100,000 people were displaced throughout the region.  As receding waters gave way to the monstrous cleanup, total damage estimates exceed $5 billion in what has now been deemed the costliest disaster in Canadian history. 

The Canadian Red Cross response was immediate with the mobilization of more than 1,000 volunteers from across Canada and the management or support of 16 emergency shelters. 

To date, $18.8 million has been spent or committed by the Canadian Red Cross, including the distribution of more than 945,000 relief supplies, support to more than 6,000 families, financial assistance to 1,000 families during the holiday season to alleviate monetary stress, and emotional support through ongoing partnerships with Alberta Mental Health and local health services. 

More than $670,000 has been committed to the Winter Emergency Heat program, created in partnership with the Government of Alberta, to provide heat and hot water to affected homes.  More than $500,000 has been allocated to helping approximately 500 High River households with utility bills.

The Canadian Red Cross provided Samaritan’s Purse with financial support for the clean up of 400 homes in Calgary, High River and Siksika Nation, and Habitat for Humanity for the repair and restoration of 50 homes.  A Community Grant Program has been established to address existing and anticipated strains on community social service agencies, such as food banks.

The Canadian Red Cross continues to provide financial assistance to flood-affected families as needs emerge. Funding is still available for community recovery projects and capacity building projects such as emergency preparedness education initiatives.  The ongoing effort with First Nations communities continues, supporting the needs of families in the months to come.    

Recovering from a disaster of this magnitude takes time.  An unprecedented number of volunteers, donors, community and corporate supporters have joined the Red Cross in providing emergency relief and recovery assistance to the people of Alberta.

To learn more about how the Canadian Red Cross continues to make a difference in the lives of individuals impacted by the flooding, read our progress report.

If you require assistance due to the impact of the Alberta floods, please contact the Red Cross Recovery Assistance Line 1-866-696-6484.