Province of Alberta providing cash to disaster evacuees

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on May 21, 2025.

newsdesk@medicinehatnews.com

Albertans affected by wildfire and who have been evacuated for seven days or more will be eligible for a one-time payment of $1,250 with an additional $500 for each dependent child under 18.

The province released the evacuation payment numbers recently that are aimed to help Albertans pay for temporary accommodations, food and other necessities while being forced away from their homes.

The evacuation payments are not solely for wildfire evacuees, and are also available for any Albertan who has had to follow an evacuation order due to floods and other natural disasters.

“Whether flood or fire, evacuations due to natural disasters can be incredibly stressful.” said Jason Nixon, minister of seniors, community and social services. “As always, our government is working hard to ensure help is there for those who need it and do everything we can to support Albertans through this wildfire season.”

According to the government, evacuees can apply for the one-time payment up to 60 days following the start of an evacuation order, and payments are typically received by e-transfer within 24 hours of approving the application.

Albertans unable to receive e-transfer can call the Alberta Supports Contact Centre at 1-877-644-9992 to make alternate payment arrangements.

“In the face of flood and fires, Alberta’s government remains committed to providing essential support and resources to protect and assist Albertans during this wildfire season,” said Mike Ellis, minister of public safety and emergency services.”

The province is also reminding residents that support is available for those who may need help evacuating and for those who may need additional financial support for food, clothing, transportation and temporary shelter.

Residents are encouraged to contact the Income Support Emergency Contact Centre at 1-866-644-5135 for more information.

Currently there are 12 active wildfires burning in the province. Ten are under control by local firefighter services, while one burning east of Calgary and west of Banff in the Rocky Mountain foothills is considered out of control and is expected to continue growing.

So far in 2025 there have been 362 total wildfires in Alberta, and human activities are the suspected cause of 80 per cent, or 288, while only three are suspected to be caused by lightning.

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