Nunavut strengthens emergency response capacity with support from the Canadian Red Cross

Press Release

April 21, 2026

(Iqaluit, Nunavut) – The Government of Nunavut, through Nunavut Emergency Management (NEM), is working with the Canadian Red Cross to enhance emergency response capacity and ensure communities have access to critical supports when they are needed most.

The Canadian Red Cross has provided flood clean-up kits to support communities following flooding events, which NEM is coordinating for deployment based on identified needs. This includes support to Gjoa Haven, where response and recovery efforts continue following recent severe weather and a prolonged power outage affected the entire community.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to ensuring Nunavut communities have access to practical, on-the-ground support when it is needed most. It also strengthens the territory’s ability to respond quickly and effectively in remote and challenging conditions.

“Communities in Nunavut face unique challenges during emergencies, from extreme weather to the realities of responding in northern environments,” said Minister of Community Services Craig Simailak. “Working with the Canadian Red Cross helps ensure residents have access to the supports they need, while strengthening our ability to respond effectively across the territory.”

The Canadian Red Cross works alongside governments and communities to provide humanitarian support during emergencies, including response and recovery assistance, and plays an important role in delivering practical supports to communities across Canada.

“Being prepared in advance of emergencies or disasters is vitally important to help ensure people impacted receive the support they need,” said Luc Mullinder, Canadian Red Cross vice-president for Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Nunavut. “The Canadian Red Cross is grateful to partner with the Government of Nunavut to help support preparedness and response efforts in remote northern communities.”

NEM continues to work closely with territorial, federal and community partners to ensure communities across Nunavut are prepared, supported during emergencies, and assisted through recovery.

Contact

Ryleigh Hubert
Senior Crisis Communication Specialist
Department of Community Services
867-222-4262
RMcPherson2@gov.nu.ca

Canadian Red Cross
Media Relations Team
1-877-599-9602
media@redcross.ca

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