The Salvation Army Provides Compassionate Care During Ice Storm

 

Following the recent devastating ice storm, The Salvation Army Emergency Disaster Services (EDS) teams mobilized to support some of Ontario’s hardest-hit communities, as downed trees, icy roads, and widespread outages created dangerous conditions and urgent needs for affected residents.

Deployed by the Provincial Emergency Operations Centre (PEOC) on March 31, 2025, 12 EDS staff and volunteers were on the ground in Orillia and Peterborough after hundreds of thousands of residents lost power for several days.  The response wrapped up following dinner service on April 4.

More than 2,600 nutritious hot meals, 3,000 drinks, and 200 snacks were provided to impacted individuals in those communities. In rural areas of Peterborough County, including Cavan and Norwood, Salvation Army teams also handed out water and snacks to individuals with limited access to necessities.

EDS Ontario disaster services specialist Brody Fisher was on the scene in Orillia during the response, working with a team of dedicated volunteers.

“We ensured that individuals and families had access to warm, nourishing food at a time when many were without the means to cook or store food safely,” Brody says. “Beyond food services, we distributed essential clothing items—including warm outerwear, socks, and hygiene supplies to help individuals stay dry and warm in difficult conditions.”

Simcoe North MPP Jill Dunlop, Ontario’s Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response, visited the reception centre in Orillia where The Salvation Army was set up to bring empathetic and supportive assistance.

“As a trusted Ontario Corps partner, Salvation Army volunteers stepped up to bring food trucks to impacted communities, providing services that gave residents hope, dignity and urgent relief,” she says. “Ontario is strongest when our everyday heroes come together to lend a helping hand. I want to express my sincere gratitude to The Salvation Army for answering the call to help those in need.”

Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal extended heartfelt thanks to The Salvation Army for its efforts during the ice storm on behalf of the city and its residents.

“The quick response and dedication to providing food and comfort to residents in need made a real difference in our community during a very challenging time. We are truly grateful for your compassion, your partnership and your unwavering commitment to helping others.”

Orillia Mayor Don McIsaac is appreciative of the long-standing relationship the city has with The Salvation Army.

“Community organizations, such as The Salvation Army, played a vital role in Orillia’s response to the recent ice storm,” he says. “Their efforts in delivering food, serving meals, and helping the city support residents at the relief centre brought much-needed comfort during a challenging time. We are deeply grateful for their ongoing dedication to our community.”

As response efforts continued, a new community reached out for help. On April 3, 2025, Dufferin County declared a state of emergency, prompting another EDS deployment. In Mulmur Township north of Orangeville, where many had been without electricity for over 96 hours, EDS brought in a mobile shower trailer and distributed toiletries and towels—restoring a sense of comfort for those without running water or heat.

In addition to meeting physical needs, emotional and spiritual care volunteers were present in all deployed areas. They offered a listening ear, supportive conversation, and prayer to those experiencing fear, anxiety, or emotional distress.

“These moments of connection were as vital as the practical support, reminding those we served that they were not alone,” Brody says.

These emergency responses were made possible through innovative partnerships with community organizations and governments. GlobalMedic, ATTCH, Feed Ontario, and local municipalities played a pivotal role in ensuring coordinated outreach. In Orillia, The Sharing Place partnered with EDS to help prepare and distribute meals to those affected.

The Salvation Army’s efforts during the ice storm demonstrate a deep commitment to communities in crisis—delivering practical assistance, compassionate care, and a sense of hope when it’s needed most. Thank you to all of the essential partners who helped make life a little bit easier for Ontarians during this difficult time.

Your support of The Salvation Army ensures that vital and life-changing programs and services continue for people in need in Ontario. Donate today at www.SalvationArmy.ca or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY.