Manitoba launches assistance program for wildfire-impacted communities

Manitoba communities impacted by this year’s wildfire season can now receive financial help from the government.

Manitoba communities impacted by this year’s wildfire season will be able to receive financial help from the government.

On Wednesday, the province launched the Disaster Financial Assistance program, which will help communities in the province recover from the 2025 wildfire season.

“We’ve witnessed incredible acts of compassion and resilience from communities across Manitoba,” Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor said in a news release on Wednesday. “From opening their doors to evacuees to mobilizing emergency resources, these communities have shown what it means to care for one another. This program is one way we’re ensuring they’re not alone in the recovery process.”

The program will provide financial support for communities that were either directly impacted by the wildfires or incurred significant costs while hosting wildfire evacuees. Costs covered under the program include pre-emptive preparation efforts, emergency response operations, recovery support and long-term wildfire mitigation strategies.

Manitoba’s wildfire season, the worst in 30 years, prompted two states of emergency and the evacuation of multiple communities.

Applicants have until Nov. 30 to make claims. More information can be found online.