Supporting Communities in Crisis Through Compassionate Action

Disaster Management Volunteer – Canadian Red Cross

Role: Dan Hendry

Year: 2009–2019

For nearly a decade, I served as a Disaster Management Volunteer with the Canadian Red Cross in Kingston. While the Red Cross is often associated with large‑scale national or international emergencies, much of its most critical work happens locally—supporting individuals and families in our own community during moments of sudden loss and disruption.

In this role, I was trained not as a first responder, but as what I often describe as a “first supporter.” When fires or other emergencies displaced people from their homes, our volunteer team was called in after emergency services had stabilized the situation. I regularly worked in sensitive, high‑stress environments, supporting individuals and families during the first hours following an emergency.

My responsibilities focused on providing up to 72 hours of immediate support, including helping clients access temporary accommodation, food, clothing, and essential supplies. I completed required documentation and coordinated services through established community partnerships, including voucher systems with local hotels and service providers. Over time, I contributed more than 300 volunteer hours and assumed a supervisory role, supporting and guiding other volunteers delivering direct services at shelters and reception centres.

Images Supplied By: CBC Broadcast Website

One of the most significant experiences during my service occurred during the Princess Street fire in Kingston in December 2013, when a large apartment building under construction caught fire and displaced many residents. In the aftermath, I served in a supervisory role at the emergency shelter established at the Portsmouth Olympic Harbour, helping coordinate shelter operations and supporting the registration and inquiry process so displaced individuals and concerned family members could be accounted for during the crisis.

My time with the Canadian Red Cross reinforced the reality that emergencies are often local and deeply personal. Whether responding to a single household or a community‑wide event, this work underscored the importance of organized, compassionate action and strong community relationships in helping people regain a sense of stability during times of crisis.

Related Links & Media:  Kingston fire aftermath | CBC.ca