The Municipality of Port Hope has received a $25,000 grant from Hydro One’s Energizing Life Community Fund to support the development of a Community Wildland Fire Protection Plan (CWFPP). Port Hope is one of 28 Indigenous communities, municipalities and charitable organizations across Ontario to be selected for the program.
Mayor Olena Hankivsky said the grant allows the municipality to take proactive steps to protect residents, homes and natural areas from the growing risk of wildfires. “On behalf of Council, I thank Hydro One for their partnership and commitment to supporting community safety and resilience in Port Hope,” she stated.
Fire Chief and Director of Protective Services Jason Williams said the funding will help identify local wildfire risks, enhance emergency preparedness, and coordinate response efforts. It will also guide prevention and education initiatives to build long-term community resilience.
Hydro One Vice President Bronwen Evans congratulated Port Hope, saying the 2025 recipients are “powerful agents of local change” and that the company is excited to partner with them.
Municipal officials say the plan will serve as both a guide for wildfire prevention and a framework for a coordinated response in the event of a wildfire. With recent increases in wildfires in neighbouring communities, Port Hope leaders say having a comprehensive plan in place is more important than ever to safeguard residents, property, and the Ganaraska Forest.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)