A remarkable wave of generosity swept across Manitoba this week as communities united for the Manitoba Day of Caring for Wildfire Evacuees — a special, province-wide broadcast that brought together more than 30 radio stations to support those displaced by ongoing wildfires.
Held on Thursday, June 5, the unprecedented collaboration mobilized listeners from Brandon to Steinbach, Thompson to Winkler, and nearly everywhere in between. By the end of the broadcast day, donations had reached $306,073.26 — an incredible show of care and compassion from Manitobans.
And the giving didn’t stop when the broadcast ended. By mid-afternoon Friday, donations had climbed to $392,448 — and the total continues to rise.
Organizers are thanking everyone who gave, shared, and supported this effort. Your kindness is making a real difference.
It's not too late to help
With the provincial and federal governments' matching still in effect through June 27, every $1 donated becomes $3 to help wildfire evacuees. Contributions support the Canadian Red Cross 2025 Manitoba Wildfires Appeal, which is providing emergency shelter, food, hygiene kits, and emotional support to those affected.
As wildfires continue to displace thousands across the province, the need remains urgent.
More than 14,300 people have registered with the Canadian Red Cross after evacuating from over 5,400 households. Shelters are currently operating in Winnipeg, Thompson, Winkler, and Portage la Prairie, with emergency social services assisting evacuees from across northern Manitoba.
Red Cross site manager Fouzia Bazid, working in Winnipeg, said the presence of familiar Red Cross staff provides evacuees with some reassurance during a stressful time. “We clearly see there is a lot of stress and trauma that happens, because this is not their first evacuation. To see a familiar face with our red [vests], that gives them comfort.”
How you can contribute:
- Donate online: Click here
- Text-to-donate: Text RADIO to 20222 to donate $10
- Share the message: Use #MBDayOfCaring on social media
The Manitoba Day of Caring was a first-of-its-kind initiative, and its impact is still growing. With matching funds in place and needs still great, there's still time to give!