Manitoba Government Matches Canadian Red Cross Donations to Support Wildfire Evacuees and Affected Businesses

Press Release

December 2, 2025

The Manitoba government and the Canadian Red Cross are providing financial assistance to individuals, families and small businesses affected by the 2025 Manitoba wildfires, Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor, minister responsible for the Emergency Management Organization, announced today.

“Throughout this wildfire season, we’ve seen the very best of Manitobans,” said Naylor. “During times of crisis, Manitobans know how to take care of one another and they gave generously to help their neighbours. Our government is right there with you, matching your generosity and helping communities rebuild after this wildfire season. This season tested us, but it’s clear Manitobans can always count on each other.”

The Manitoba government will match funds raised through the Canadian Red Cross’s 2025 Manitoba Wildfires Appeal fund, contributing a total of $6.5 million. The contribution will support recovery for individuals and small businesses in wildfire-affected regions including approximately $2 million set aside for small-business support. Registered evacuees who previously received emergency financial assistance will be eligible for recovery support of $120 per adult and $65 per child.

The Canadian Red Cross in Manitoba is developing an application-based program for affected small businesses with further details to follow January 2026, the minister noted. The organization will share additional information, including eligibility and application details, at https://redcross.ca/2025manitobawildfires as it becomes available. The Canadian Red Cross, Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak and Four Arrows Regional Health Authority will distribute the funds.

“This year’s wildfires had a significant impact on individuals and families, business owners and local organizations across northern Manitoba,” said Luc Mullinder, vice-president, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Nunavut, Canadian Red Cross. “I want to extend our appreciation and heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the 2025 Manitoba Fires Appeal and to the Manitoba government for its matching funds. It takes time to recover from a disaster, and our teams will continue to work collaboratively with communities and Indigenous leadership to support people along their journey.”

Earlier this month, the Manitoba government approved funding through the Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) program to support local authorities and host communities. More information is available at https://gov.mb.ca/emo/funding/dfa/programs.html.

Local authorities can also review the Introduction to DFA Eligible Wildland Urban Interface Fire Costs guide at https://gov.mb.ca/emo/funding/dfa/local-authorities.html.

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For more information:

• Public information, contact Manitoba Government Inquiry: mgi@gov.mb.ca or 1-866-626-4862 or 204-945-3744.
• Media requests for general information, contact Communications and Engagement: newsroom@gov.mb.ca.
• Media requests for ministerial comment, contact Cabinet Communications: cabcom@manitoba.ca.

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