Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex is calling on community members to join a dynamic new volunteer team that’s preparing to respond when disaster strikes.

With over $580,000 in provincial funding, Habitat Windsor-Essex is launching a bold new arm of their Repair Revolution Program. This effort is designed to train and equip local volunteers to assist during floods, storms, and other emergencies.

The program not only strengthens local readiness—it will eventually allow Habitat Windsor-Essex teams to be deployed as part of Ontario Corps across Ontario when communities are in need.

This pilot project is part of a broader effort by the Province of Ontario to strengthen the response capabilities of Ontario Corps partners around the province, including Habitat Windsor-Essex, to ensure communities are better prepared to respond to local emergencies.

“This is about building more than homes—we’re building community resilience,” said Fiona Coughlin, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex. “We’ve seen the devastating impacts of floods, fires, and extreme weather. Now, we’re preparing trained teams of volunteers to help families recover faster, safer, and with dignity.”

“Under the leadership of Premier Ford, our government is protecting Ontario from all threats – from wildland fires to flooding, ice storms or whatever else may come our way,” said Jill Dunlop, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response.

“With Ontario Corps partners like Habitat for Humanity Windsor-Essex, we’re investing in made-in-Ontario solutions to support local emergency responders as soon as they’re needed.”

The program will train 50 core volunteers and 6 team-leads in essential emergency remediation skills such as:

• Water damage restoration
• Mould and smoke remediation
• Safe demolition and rebuilding
• CPR and first aid
• Disaster preparedness education

Volunteers will gain hands-on experience by working alongside experienced trainers on real repair projects through Habitat’s Repair Revolution program.

Funding has enabled the creation of a fully equipped mobile emergency response unit, complete with tools, PPE, generators, water pumps, and communication equipment. This will ensure the team can respond quickly—not just in Windsor-Essex, but wherever help is needed across the province.

Community members are invited to learn more and get involved.

Volunteer Open House:

Date: Thursday, July 31, 2025

Time: 6:30 PM

Location: Habitat ReStore – 51 Edinborough St., Windsor

Come meet the team and discover how you can help build a more prepared and resilient Ontario.