The Manitoba government has announced emergency assistance for wildfire evacuees

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The Manitoba government is providing emergency financial support to residents of Cranberry Portage and surrounding communities who have been evacuated from their homes due to wildfires.

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“We know the impact these wildfires have had on families in Cranberry Portage and the surrounding communities,” Premier Wab Kinew said Monday. “We know that your government will help you as people start to return home. We provide this financial support to ensure families don't have to worry about getting food or paying bills during this difficult time.”

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The wildfire, located 1.5 kilometers from Cranberry Portage, prompted the evacuation of residents of Sourdough Bay, Whitefish Lake, Twin Lakes, Bakers Narrows, Schist Lake North and Cranberry Portage.

There are currently more than 800 Manitobans registered with Emergency Social Services (ESS), Kinew said. ESS provides support when evacuations last more than three days, including per diem assistance to cover direct lodging costs, food and transportation costs.

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This supplement is a one-time benefit to those who have been in mandatory evacuation due to wildfires for seven days or more. Through this initiative, eligible adults receive $200 and eligible children receive $100.

Supplemental ESS is provided in affected communities to individuals and families who are registered with the enrollment center and meet the eligibility criteria. For additional program details and ESS registration information, affected citizens can visit www.manitoba.ca/ess/index.html.

Anyone affected by fire conditions in Manitoba and in need of further assistance is asked to call 211 or toll-free at 1-855-275-1197 or use the chat for text assistance at https://mb.211.ca/get-help-now/.

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