Government of Yukon and Canadian Red Cross partner to strengthen disaster response and emergency preparedness in Yukon communities

Today, the Government of Yukon and the Canadian Red Cross announced a new multiyear agreement to deliver Emergency Support Services (ESS) in the Yukon. The agreement will help enhance disaster response and emergency preparedness across the territory for events such as wildfires, flooding and personal disasters such as house fires.

The Government of Yukon and the Canadian Red Cross have a longstanding partnership of working together during wildfires, flooding and other emergencies. This collaboration demonstrates how united efforts strengthen the Yukon's disaster response network.

With the territory having experienced another active wildfire season, the Government of Yukon and the Canadian Red Cross remind all Yukon residents to prioritize personal preparedness and readiness for natural disasters and emergencies. Time and again, being ready for emergencies has proven to play a critical role in protecting individuals and families during times of crisis.

Anyone interested in learning more about becoming a Red Cross volunteer can visit www.redcross.ca/volunteer/apply-now for more information.

Our government's partnership with the Canadian Red Cross strengthens Emergency Support Services throughout the Yukon. This collaboration will help streamline emergency assistance, complementing the existing support offered by the Department of Health and Social Services. Together, we are helping support the health, safety and wellbeing of all Yukoners during an emergency. 
With an established presence in Yukon over the past several years, the Canadian Red Cross has played an important role in assisting impacted communities during emergencies and natural disasters while also understanding the unique geographical and socio-cultural landscape of the territory. This agreement enhances our partnership and shared ability to respond to the immediate needs of people and communities facing the impacts of emergencies and disasters.
Quick facts 

• The partnership agreement will help ensure that the Red Cross is able to respond effectively to emergencies and disasters of varying scales and magnitudes at the request of the Government of Yukon.
• Emergency Support Services (ESS) will still operate during emergencies and will work in tandem with the Red Cross. 
• The Red Cross will also be able to tailor response efforts and preparedness initiatives to best suit the immediate and long-term needs of local communities. 
• Dedicated volunteers provide crucial support to people affected by disasters, including registration, reception and information services, emergency shelter, clothing, food, referrals, emotional support, as well as other assistance. 

Media contact 
Renée Francoeur
Cabinet Communications
1-867-334-9194
renee.francoeur@yukon.ca

Kate Erwin
Communications, Health and Social Services
1-867-334-9269
kate.erwin@yukon.ca

Canadian Red Cross B.C. Media Line
(604) 709-6747