May 14, 2025
The City of Edmonton's new semi-permanent Rapid Emergency Support Terminal (REST) is ready to support Edmontonians and people from other areas who are displaced during a disaster.
The REST, similar to a reception centre, provides a safe space for evacuees when they are displaced from their homes. The City, alongside the Canadian Red Cross and community agencies, work together at the REST to meet the specific needs of evacuees.
"This facility is the first of its kind in Alberta. It reinforces the City’s commitment to the safety and well-being of Edmontonians and our readiness to support our neighbours in times of need," said Eddie Robar, City Manager. “The City has a long history of supporting evacuees, and having a long-term location allows us to provide this support quickly and more efficiently.”
The City of Edmonton activated the REST to support more than 250 Edmontonians who were evacuated from their northeast Edmonton homes last week due to a structure fire.
The City is regularly called upon by the Alberta Emergency Management Agency and impacted municipalities to support people displaced by wildfires, floods or other emergencies. In 2024, the City supported 1,845 evacuees from the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo and 2,856 evacuees from Jasper.
When in use, evacuees can access a range of services at the REST, including:
- registration and information
- coordination of accommodations
- coordination of food and water
- essential supplies
- referral to culturally relevant services
- pet services
- temporary rest area
The REST is staffed by a complement of nearly 1,000 City staff on the City’s Emergency Support Response Team (ESRT). These members work in all City departments and take training to provide various services at a REST. They are supported by specialized teams from across the organization, partners at the Canadian Red Cross and community agencies.
