~ Tracey Gillies, a regular volunteer with Canadian Disaster Relief
Samaritan’s Purse responds to humanitarian crises with physical aid and a message of spiritual hope. In Canada, our Disaster Relief Units, several tractor trailers outfitted with generators, pumps, hand tools, and safety gear, equip staff and volunteers to share God’s love in a tangible way with Canadians in need.
Volunteers assist uninsured or under-insured homeowners with tasks such as possession recovery, mud-outs (after flooding), ash sifting (after fires), debris removal, roof tarping, and more. Read this article about a day in the life of a Samaritan’s Purse disaster relief volunteer.
Chaplains from our sister organization, the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, serve alongside Samaritan’s Purse, offering emotional and spiritual support to homeowners and volunteers.
No, anyone can volunteer! We provide all the training that you need, then pair you with trained and experienced leaders to facilitate your volunteer experience.
While we encourage people to participate for at least one full-day to have the opportunity to get to know home-owners and fellow volunteers, anywhere from a half-day to up to a week or two can be a great opportunity.
Yes, we will provide dorm-style accommodations at the host Lighthouse Host Church base for volunteers who have registered online. You may need to bring a pillow, sleeping bag and air mattress or cot (if desired). Everything you need to bring will be outlined in an orientation packet you’ll receive before you depart.
No, Samaritan’s Purse will provide all the tools you need. If you have tools you’d like to bring, please inquire beforehand.
We provide personal protective equipment such as masks, gloves, safety glasses, etc. You will need to bring your own sturdy, closed-toed footwear.
For safety reasons, we recommend that volunteers are over the age of 18. Youth 14-17 require prior permission from us, and must work with a parent or legal guardian.
You are responsible for your own transportation to the disaster response location, and any incidentals during your stay. We take care of the accommodation, food and safety gear for you as you serve.
No. Because of volunteers and donors like you, Samaritan’s Purse can provide services at no cost to the homeowner, assisting them in their ongoing recovery.
~ Jody Price, Fire Chief, Oromocto Fire Department, New Brunswick