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- calendar_today October 22, 2026
Ontario Corps Expands Partner Network with Leading Insurance Organizations
The Ontario government has announced the latest expansion of Ontario Corps by welcoming two major insurance associations: the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) and the Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario (IBAO). This move aims to strengthen the province's capacity for emergency preparedness and effective emergency response by leveraging the networks and expertise of the insurance sector.
Enhanced Support for Communities During Emergencies
Through these new partnerships, Ontario Corps will be better positioned to deliver critical resources and support when emergencies strike. Jill Dunlop, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Response, emphasized the importance of making insurance help and expertise available where and when they are needed most. She stated, "Getting the right information to the right people at the right time can give Ontarians peace of mind during challenging times."
Role of IBC and IBAO in Emergency Response
Following catastrophic events such as severe weather, the Insurance Bureau of Canada can deploy its Community Assistance Mobile Pavilion (CAMP). Staffed with trained insurance industry personnel, CAMP offers in-person assistance at emergency shelters and reception centres as well as virtual support through its Consumer Information Centre. It helps affected individuals and businesses navigate insurance-related questions and claims processes.
The Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario will lend its communication network to quickly reach 370 member businesses, amplifying provincial emergency response needs and communicating priorities. Both IBC and IBAO will also provide valuable industry insights to inform and improve emergency response strategies across the province.
Ontario Corps: A Rapid-Response Volunteer Network
Ontario Corps can mobilize resources within 24 to 72 hours after an emergency, deploying personnel, debris removal tools, supplies, flood barriers, and drones to communities most in need. The network's volunteers come from a wide range of backgrounds and skill levels, receiving training and being matched with partner organizations according to their abilities and availability. Those interested in supporting community assistance and disaster recovery efforts are encouraged to volunteer for Ontario Corps.
Recent Deployments and Expanding Partnerships
Ontario Corps has been actively deployed in response to several emergencies, including summer flooding in Niagara Region and the 2026 wildland fire season. The inclusion of IBC and IBAO adds to a growing list of partners, such as Bruce Power, Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario, The Home Depot Canada, Labatt Breweries of Canada, Niagara College, Ontario Chamber of Commerce, Ontario Mine Rescue, Ontario Road Builders’ Association, Ontario Stone, Sand and Gravel Association, Uber Canada, and Waste to Resource Ontario (W2RO).
A new state-of-the-art Emergency Preparedness and Response Headquarters is also planned, which will become the 24/7 command centre for future Ontario Corps deployments, featuring advanced technology and resources for year-round operations.
About the Insurance Bureau of Canada and Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario
Founded in 1964, the Insurance Bureau of Canada represents Canada’s private home, auto, and business insurers. It covers the majority of the country’s property and casualty insurance market. The Insurance Brokers Association of Ontario, a not-for-profit trade association, represents approximately 18,500 insurance professionals in Ontario, including more than 16,600 licensed brokers.
Source: news.ontario.ca.
