Emergency Support Services (ESS) provide short-term assistance to British Columbians in need of emergency supports who are impacted by disasters. Assistance includes shelter, food, clothing, emotional support, and family reunification. The program is financed by the provincial government and administered by Indigenous communities and local governments.
ESS may be offered for up to 72 hours, but it can be available for longer, depending on the emergency.
Evacuee registration
The District of West Vancouver, City of North Vancouver and District of North Vancouver use an online provincial registration system, the Evacuee Registration and Assistance (ERA) tool, to register evacuees.
This online platform is designed to streamline processes for evacuated individuals, so services (e.g., shelter, food, clothing, incidentals) and information (e.g., actions to take, things to consider) are delivered easily and efficiently.
How to register for support
- Before an emergency: Register online through the Evacuee Registration and Assistance (ERA) platform. TIP: By registering with your BC Services Card, you may be able to receive supports via e-Transfer.
- At the time of an emergency: Register in person at a designated Reception Centre. Information on where to go and what to do is often included in Evacuation Order documents.
Reception Centres
A reception centre, which could be located in a community centre, recreation centre, church or school, is a safe place where evacuees can go to receive:
- information about the emergency.
- assistance meeting basic needs.
- help planning their recovery from the disaster.
Group Lodging
Group lodging is a safe place where people can go to:
- sleep and eat.
- receive specialized care, including multicultural services and transportation.
- receive health services, such as first aid and emotional support.
