Premier Ford Launches Ontario Corps to Strengthen Emergency Response

Today, Premier Doug Ford announced the launch of Ontario Corps, a volunteer and professional response team that will help communities across the province during emergencies. Ontario Corps aims to harness the province’s community spirit by mobilizing skilled volunteers to provide essential support during natural disasters and other crises.

“Ontario has always been known for its community spirit,” said Premier Ford. “With Ontario Corps, we’re channeling that energy to assist communities in need, ensuring we can respond quickly and effectively to emergencies.”

Modeled after successful programs like AmeriCorps, Ontario Corps will partner with organizations such as Feed Ontario, Ontario Search and Rescue Volunteer Association, Salvation Army, GlobalMedic, and Team Rubicon Canada. The initiative will focus on deploying volunteers and resources for tasks like emergency shelter, food services, debris management, and flood protection.

Ontario Corps volunteers of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply and will receive training to match their skills with specific needs. The province has also secured equipment like flood barriers, drones, and water pumps, ensuring that resources can be deployed to impacted areas within 24 to 72 hours.

“The essence of Ontario Corps is neighbours helping neighbours,” said Trevor Jones, Associate Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response. “This program will keep our province safe and ensure we are ready for any emergency.”

In a recent pilot project, Ontario Corps partners assisted Gravenhurst with wellness checks, food hampers, and a warming centre after a heavy snowfall, and Team Rubicon Canada helped French River with flood mitigation efforts in April.

Ontario Corps is part of Ontario’s broader $110 million investment to improve emergency preparedness and response across the province. The government is also establishing a new Ontario Emergency Preparedness and Response Headquarters in Etobicoke, and regional emergency hubs will be developed across Ontario, ensuring swift local responses.

For more information about Ontario Corps and to volunteer, visit [Ontario Corps website link].


Quick Facts:

  • Ontario Corps is part of a $110 million investment over three years to enhance emergency preparedness.
  • Communities in need can contact Emergency Management Ontario for assistance.
  • Ontario Corps is a key element of the Provincial Emergency Management Strategy, ensuring every community is safe, prepared, and practiced.

Media Contact:
Emily Gratton
Communications Advisor,
Office of Rob Flack, MPP
emily.gratton@pc.ola.org
519-631-5995