Welland – The Ontario government is expanding Ontario Corps by welcoming its latest partner, Niagara College, to help before, during and after emergencies. Through Ontario Corps, the province is delivering on its plan to protect Ontario by creating a network of partners and dedicated volunteers ready to respond to local emergencies and deploy critical resources at a moment’s notice.
“Niagara College continues to be a leader in innovation by being the first post-secondary institution to partner with the province’s volunteer emergency response initiative,” said Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West.
“This partnership will provide vital emergency management experience for students and provide a critical helping hand for communities in need when it counts the most.”
“Our partnership with Niagara College is focused on growth for our Ontario Corps volunteers,” said Hon. Jill Dunlop, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response.
“Making sure we have volunteers ready to answer the call across province means we can act quickly to help communities when needed.”
Through the partnership, Niagara College will encourage its students, staff and faculty to join Ontario Corps and it will participate in information sessions, community engagement initiatives and activities that strengthen emergency preparedness. As a leader in emergency management, Niagara College will also share institutional expertise and best practices relevant to emergency preparedness and community resilience.
The Ontario Corps network can be mobilized within twenty-four to seventy-two hours to help communities hit hard by emergencies, deploying resources such as personnel, debris removal tools, supplies, flood barriers and drones.
People of all skill levels and professional backgrounds are encouraged to volunteer for Ontario Corps. Volunteers will be provided with training and matched with partner organizations based on their skill levels, interests and availability.
“Ontario’s colleges are preparing students to support and strengthen our communities, no matter what we face,” said Hon. Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security.
“Through this partnership between Niagara College and Ontario Corps, our government is ensuring that students, staff and faculty gain the practical skills and knowledge they need to effectively respond to emergencies and protect Ontario.”
“As the first post-secondary institution to partner with Ontario Corps, Niagara College is pleased to expand meaningful opportunities for students to make a difference in the communities they serve,” said Sean Kennedy, President of Niagara College.
“This partnership builds on Niagara College’s expertise in emergency management and gives our students, who are already making a meaningful impact across Niagara, another way to step forward when their community needs them most.”