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Ontario Boosting Local Emergency Preparedness in Essa

May 21, 2025

Province investing additional $5 million to protect communities and improve emergency response capabilities

May 21, 2025 – For Immediate Release

Angus, ON – Today, Brian Saunderson, MPP for Simcoe-Grey was pleased to announce that the Ontario government is taking action to protect the province by investing $46,111 in the Township of Essa to prepare for and respond to emergencies. Funding is being delivered through the Community Emergency Preparedness Grant, which strengthens emergency preparedness by funding local emergency management training, purchasing critical equipment, and improving infrastructure to make communities more resilient.

“Here in Simcoe-Grey, we certainly know first-hand the damage and destruction that events like severe weather can cause,” said MPP Saunderson. “During the recent ice storm, trees were toppled, and power was lost. This investment in a generator will help ensure power can always flow to the Township of Essa’s Municipal Office, which also serves as their Emergency Operations Centre. This will better enable staff to share vital information and provide important services to impacted residents.”

“A safe and prepared Ontario comes when communities and organizations have the resources they need to respond efficiently and effectively in times of crisis,” said Jill Dunlop, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response. “I saw first-hand, during the recent ice storms, how our community and the entire province is stronger when we have the capacity to come together to support each other and respond quickly when disaster strikes.”

This year, 114 recipients are receiving funding through the 2024-25 Community Emergency Preparedness Grant (CEPG) to help them purchase critical equipment and deliver emergency management training to increase local emergency readiness.

In addition to the Community Emergency Preparedness Grant, the Ontario government recently announced that it is building a new Ontario Emergency Preparedness and Response Headquarters that will support public safety and disaster response measures, including Ontario Corps.

QUOTES

“On behalf of the Township of Essa, I would like to sincerely thank the Ford government and our MPP Brian Saunderson for their continued support and commitment to community safety. The Emergency Preparedness Grant we have received is a vital investment in protecting our residents and enhancing our readiness to respond effectively to emergencies. This funding strengthens our ability to plan, prepare, and act with resilience, ensuring that Essa remains a safe and secure place for everyone who calls it home.”

– Mayor Sandie Macdonald

QUICK FACTS

  • The CEPG grant supports municipalities, local services boards, First Nations communities, Tribal Councils, Indigenous service organizations and non-governmental organizations with mandates or responsibilities in emergency preparedness.
  • Recipients were selected through a rigorous and competitive review process.
  • Last year, 113 recipients received the 2023-24 Community Emergency Preparedness Grant.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES