Since 2011, World Renew Disaster Response Services (DRS), Samaritan’s Purse Canada (SPC), and Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) have had an agreement to work together to respond to disasters that occur in Canada. The power of this collaborative partnership was evident in Perth-Andover, New Brunswick since March of 2012.

Since 2011, World Renew Disaster Response Services (DRS), Samaritan’s Purse Canada (SPC), and Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) have had an agreement to work together to respond to disasters that occur in Canada. The power of this collaborative partnership was evident in Perth-Andover, New Brunswick since March of 2012.

“Instead of duplicating efforts, we were able to work together in concert, maximizing the results of the work,”

The Village of Perth-Andover declared a state of emergency on March 23, 2012, as a result of flooding in the western New Brunswick community. About 150 homes were badly flooded, as well as schools and churches in the area. The residents—many of whom were elderly people with little or no    insurance—were evacuated, wondering when they would be able to return to what was left of their homes.

Within just a few days, the collaborative power of DRS, SPC, and MDS became visible. Samaritan’s Purse Canada took the lead in the initial stages of response and clean-up, with DRS and MDS providing input, volunteers, and some financial assistance. Because of the combined efforts of the three agencies, their work quickly moved from response to recovery, coordinating with local government officials, identifying specific needs, and organizing construction efforts to rebuild and restore homes.

“Instead of duplicating efforts, we were able to work together in concert, maximizing the results of the work,” says Bill Adams, DRS Director. “Each agency can work in its areas of expertise, so that the recovery process is both efficient and effective.”

This collaborative partnership in Perth-Andover, New Brunswick, is a great example of the power of partnership that World Renew Disaster Response Services is employing around North America to bring hope and renewal in times of disaster.