NDP MLA Ronna-Rae Leonard says communities will be better prepared to support people during emergencies with new funding

COMOX­ –­ New Democrat MLA Ronna-Rae Leonard says that new funding for Emergency Support Services (ESS) will help keep people safe in the event of an emergency. More than 50 First Nations and local governments will receive a share of more than $1.9 million towards local emergency preparedness. 

“With the extreme weather events we’ve seen recently, I’ve been hearing from people in my community about how we can support each other during emergencies,” says Ronna-Rae Leonard, MLA for Courtenay-Comox. “This funding will help us develop plans so that we’re ready if a disaster strikes.” 

Funding for local projects is as follows:

  • Comox Valley Regional District – Hosting with Humility: Reimagining Comox Valley’s role as a host community – $24,500
  • K’ómoks First Nation – ESS Project. – $25,000

This funding will support communities to build local capacity now to provide ESS when a disaster strikes. Governments will use funding for volunteer recruitment, retention and training, and the purchase of equipment.

Budget 2022 provides $2.1 billion to support the recovery of communities to build back better from recent disasters, and to strengthen defences to make sure people and communities across B.C. are protected from future disasters.

Learn More: news.gov.bc.ca/26769