Manitoba Prioritizes Comfort and Dignity: A New Era for Wildfire Evacuee Support

Manitoba is taking a significant step forward in how it supports communities displaced by wildfires, announcing a permanent shift away from the use of congregate shelters. From now on, all wildfire evacuees will be housed in individual hotel accommodations, a move celebrated for prioritizing the comfort, privacy, and overall well-being of those forced from their homes.

This compassionate change, effective June 1, comes as a direct response to valuable feedback from evacuees themselves.

While congregate shelters served a purpose in the past, often housing hundreds of individuals in large, shared spaces during severe wildfire seasons like those in 2021, 2022, and 2023, they presented considerable challenges. Living in close quarters with strangers for extended periods often led to increased stress, compromised privacy, and limited opportunities for personal space, impacting both mental and physical health.

Minister of Families, Renée Cable, underscored the importance of this policy shift, stating, "Everyone deserves comfort and dignity during difficult times.

Moving away from congregate shelters is a direct result of listening to the voices of those affected and ensuring we provide the best possible support." The province acknowledges that facing displacement is traumatic enough, and providing a private, secure space can significantly aid in recovery and stability.

The transition is already underway.

The last 26 evacuees, from O-Pipon-Na-Piwin Cree Nation, who were temporarily residing in a congregate shelter, have now been successfully moved to individual hotel rooms. This proactive measure ensures that as future wildfire seasons emerge, Manitoba is better prepared to offer humane and effective relief from the outset.

Bernie Froese-Kooijenga, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate and Resilience, highlighted the comprehensive approach.

"This isn't just about providing a bed; it's about providing a holistic support system. Alongside hotel accommodations, the province continues to offer essential services including cultural support, psychosocial assistance, and health care to all evacuees, ensuring their diverse needs are met."

This new policy reflects a commitment to learning from past experiences and continuously improving emergency response strategies.

By focusing on individual accommodations, Manitoba aims to alleviate some of the profound stresses associated with evacuation, fostering a more supportive and dignified environment for its most vulnerable citizens during times of crisis. It's a clear signal that the province values the well-being of its residents above all else, ensuring that when disaster strikes, comfort and care are at the forefront of the response.