All hands on deck for Manitoba wildfires response

Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) has partnered to service a Canadian Red Cross reception centre for wildfire evacuees in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Since last Friday, MDS volunteers have welcomed evacuees to the centre, at 770 Leila Avenue, round-the-clock — directing them to sleeping accommodations and distributing food and essential hygiene supplies.

“We sent calls out to local churches and volunteers on Friday and Saturday. Our community has stepped up in a phenomenal way. And while needs ebb and flow at the reception centre, we are continuing to call for volunteers to service evacuees through day, evening and night shifts,” said Ross Penner, executive director of MDS Canada.

Those interested in signing up for a volunteer shift can contact Megan Wiseman by email at mbwildfires@mds.org or call 1  (866) 261-1274.

MDS is accepting financial donations to support its early response work and an anticipated long-term response for wildfire survivors, whose homes have been damaged or lost entirely. Credit card donations can be made online or by calling 1 (866) 261-1274. E-transfers, cheque and cash donations are also accepted. Please inquire by telephone or visit the MDS Canada office between 8:30 am – 4:30 pm, Monday–Friday, at 200-600 Shaftesbury Blvd, Winnipeg. Note that MDS is not accepting any material donations due to fluctuations in the need and supply of hygiene items, food and clothing.

Media inquiries can be directed to canadamedia@mds.org.

Read more about the state of emergency in Manitoba and MDS’ typical role in wildfire response here.

UPDATES

July 21, 2025 — MDS’ role at the Leila Avenue reception centre has been fulfilled. Volunteers are no longer needed.

July 15, 2025 — MDS began servicing the Canadian Red Cross reception centre at 770 Leila Avenue, Winnipeg, again due to July community evacuations.

July 10, 2025 — The Government of Manitoba declared a new provincewide state of emergency due to growing wildfires and the need for more community evacuations.

June 26, 2025 — MDS’ role in an immediate response to the Manitoba wildfires ended.

Nikki Hamm Gwala, MDS Canada Communications