United Way is proud to have helped facilitate a $20,000 donation from Scotiabank to Saskatchewan First Nations Emergency Management (SFNEM). This generous community investment will support vital fire prevention and emergency preparedness initiatives across First Nation communities in the province.
Providing public education opportunities focused on fire safety and emergency measures for communities that often face barriers in accessing these resources is an essential ingredient in emergency prevention and preparedness. That is why Scotiabank’s funding will go toward the development and distribution of posters, print materials, and other public education tools designed to increase awareness and promote proactive fire and emergency preparedness.
Michelle Vandevord, Associate Director of Saskatchewan First Nations Emergency Management, says the Scotiabank support is a proactive investment, helping communities build resilience before emergencies occur, rather than afterward.
“[The Scotiabank] donation is the highlight of the past year,” said Vandevord. “It is not very often that a company wants to support fire/emergency services on-reserve. Support is usually offered after, when it is too late.”
SFNEM plays a crucial role in building emergency management capacity in Saskatchewan’s First Nation communities. Their work spans emergency services training, mentoring, and support, all aimed at strengthening community resilience and sustainability.
One of the organization’s key focus areas is fire prevention and firefighting training.
“Many First Nation communities rely on volunteer fire departments on-reserve, or they may collaborate with the nearest tribal council or Rural Municipality. So, they often rely on limited resources when emergencies arise,” said Gary Beaudin, Director, Community Impact and Strategic Partnerships at United Way Saskatoon and Area. “SFNEM provides essential firefighter training and fire safety workshops to help fill this gap. This proactive approach is why United Way facilitated this investment.”
Through classroom instruction, hands-on exercises, and collaboration with local leadership and schools, SFNEM equip individuals, volunteers, and entire communities with the knowledge and skills needed to prevent fires, respond quickly to emergencies, and minimize loss and injury.
SFNEM’s forestry services program also ensures that remote communities are prepared to combat forest fires, a critical need given Saskatchewan’s vast and often challenging terrain. Participants are trained to understand their equipment and the environments they may be working in, allowing them to respond effectively to forest fire emergencies.
In addition to firefighting and safety training, SFNEM provides support for emergency relocation efforts when individuals lose their homes to fire, with team members trained through the Red Cross. Their comprehensive approach to emergency management ensures communities are not only prepared to respond to emergencies but are also supported in the aftermath.
“This $20,000 donation from Scotiabank is about a lot more than just funding—it is an investment in prevention, education, and long-term community safety,” said Beaudin. “And it sends an important message that proactive support for fire and emergency services on First Nations reserves is both necessary and valued.”
As Saskatchewan enters another intense fire season, United Way is honoured to help direct resources to where they are needed most, ensuring that First Nation communities in Saskatchewan are better equipped to protect lives, homes, and futures. Together, with partners like Scotiabank and organizations like SFNEM, we can continue building stronger, safer communities for everyone across the province.
Topics : News