Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (July 14, 2025) — A team of trained disaster relief volunteers from the American Red Cross of Utah is deploying this morning to Manitoba Province in Canada to assist with sheltering efforts for more than 12,500 people forced to flee their homes due to massive wildfires. The Utah volunteers are joining nearly 100 American Red Cross responders from across the country mobilizing for 21-day deployments to support the Canadian Red Cross in staffing emergency shelters and providing critical aid.
“When disaster strikes, the American Red Cross answers the call, no matter where help is needed,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “Our volunteers are proud to stand alongside the Canadian Red Cross to provide comfort, shelter and hope to those impacted by these devastating wildfires. This is what it means to come together as a global community in times of crisis.”
Historic Wildfires in Canada
With more than 100 wildfires burning in Manitoba Province, the area is in a provincewide state of emergency. Wildfires have already burned 2.5 million acres in Manitoba this year, with at least a dozen fires still out of control as of Friday morning. At this rate, Manitoba is on track to experience the most land burned by wildfires since at least 1994, according to Manitoba officials.
The American Red Cross is working in close coordination with the Canadian Red Cross to ensure evacuees have access to safe shelter, meals and emotional support during this challenging time. The Red Cross of Utah volunteers will be stationed at the Fort Garry campus of the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg to assist with emergency sheltering. Government officials are also planning to open large shelters in the area’s convention center and other indoor spaces to accommodate the growing number of evacuees.
The team of veteran Red Cross of Utah volunteers includes Kirsti Dunn from North Ogden, Jim Gentry from West Point, Megan Harris from Hyde Park and Kyu Lee from Salt Lake City.
“As Red Cross volunteers, we are driven by a deep commitment to help people in their moments of greatest need,” said Dunn. “Providing comfort, hope and support to those affected by disasters is not just what we do—it’s who we are. Standing with communities during their toughest times is both an honor and a responsibility we take to heart.”
Join the Effort to Support Disaster Relief
Support the American Red Cross Disaster Relief efforts today. Your contributions help prepare for, respond to and assist in recovery from disasters of all sizes. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
