In June and July, the province of Manitoba, Canada, was devastated by widespread wildfires, forcing the evacuation of over 33,000 residents. Families were moved to temporary shelters in Winnipeg and Saskatoon, including hotels, schools, and gymnasiums. Among those most affected were First Nation communities—friends with whom Jesus Youth has built strong bonds over the years through mission trips and ongoing presence. This year, a Jesus Youth Full-timer was also placed in one of these communities.

In response to this crisis, Jesus Youth Canada, with the support of Jesus Youth USA, launched “The Good Neighbor Response”—inspired by Kerala’s Nalla Ayalkaran Project (2018)—to bring Christ’s presence to those impacted through pastoral care and practical help. As evacuations began, more than 100 volunteers across both countries stood ready to assist wherever needed. With the support of priests and the guidance of His Excellency Archbishop Murray Chatlain, local JYs in Saskatoon, Winnipeg, and Niagara reached out to accompany First Nation families—listening, praying together, and facilitating Holy Mass, rosaries, and other spiritual gatherings.

Support extended beyond physical presence. Priests, intercession teams, and music ministries from Chicago, Ontario, Philadelphia, and South Florida organized online outreach—leading weekly live-streamed Eucharistic adorations and daily Divine Mercy Chaplets, offered for the safety and well-being of the people and their land.

As families begin returning home, Jesus Youth continues to lift them up in prayer—for safety, healing, and restoration. We also remember those communities still facing the fires, asking the Lord for strength and hope amid uncertainty.