The federal government is providing more than $4 million to support people and services affected by the February 2026 tragedy in Tumbler Ridge, B.C.
The funding includes up to $2.5 million for the Canadian Red Cross to continue assisting individuals and families and respond to priorities identified by the community.
Another $500,000 will go to British Columbia’s Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General to increase victim service capacity in Tumbler Ridge and surrounding communities.
Funding to strengthen victim services
The provincial funding is intended to strengthen co-ordination between service providers and improve preparedness for future large-scale incidents.
Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree said the effects of a tragedy can continue long after the initial event.
“This funding will help ensure individuals, families and community members affected by the tragedy have access to the services and assistance they need to support their well-being,” Anandasangaree said in a release.
The Canadian Red Cross has been providing financial assistance to affected families, referrals to community resources and psychosocial support.
Canadian Red Cross president and CEO Conrad Sauvé said recovery will take time and the organization will continue working with local partners as community needs evolve.
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Additional $1.15M for violence-prevention program
Ottawa is also providing $1.15 million through the Community Resilience Fund to Shift BC, a program led by the provincial Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General.
The program works with local service providers, families and communities to prevent violence connected to hate and violent extremism.
The federal government says the investment is part of broader efforts to improve community safety and well-being in British Columbia.
Since 2016, the Community Resilience Fund has supported frontline psychosocial intervention programs in six provinces.
New secondary school also planned
The federal and British Columbia governments are also supporting plans for a new secondary school in Tumbler Ridge at a new location.
The decision follows consultations involving victims’ families, students, teachers, experts and community members, according to the federal government.
Justice Canada also provides approximately $50 million annually through its Victims Fund for programs aimed at improving services and supports for victims of crime and their families.
B.C. Public Safety Minister Nina Krieger said victim service workers and local providers have continued supporting people affected by the tragedy.
“This funding will allow them to continue helping people recover,” Krieger said.