This photo provided by the Manitoba government shows a wildfire raging in the northern part of the province earlier this year. File Photo/AP
By Renee Lilley, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Portage Graphic Leader
August 11, 2025
The Manitoba government plans to reopen the former Manitoba Developmental Centre (MDC) site in Portage la Prairie as a temporary shelter for wildfire evacuees starting Friday, August 8. The announcement, made by Mayor Sharilyn Knox, signals the community’s role in addressing the urgent need for accommodations for those displaced by ongoing wildfires across the province.
Mayor Knox shared the update via social media, emphasizing that this is a “short-term solution” while the province works to secure more suitable, long-term accommodations. The initiative involves a collaborative partnership between the provincial government, the City of Portage la Prairie, and First Nations leadership, all working to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for the incoming evacuees.
“We know the site’s history, and I want to assure you that government has acknowledged this and is taking steps to ensure its temporary use respects the dignity of all individuals,” Knox stated in her public message, acknowledging the sensitive past of the former residential care facility.
In an interview with the Graphic Leader, Mayor Knox provided further details on the logistical plan. She indicated that the arrival of evacuees would be a “slow rollout,” with the first individuals expected soon. “I’m expected to see our first ones today (August 8), and then it’ll just slowly roll out over time,” Knox said, expressing hope that conditions in northern communities will improve, allowing residents to return to their homes.
The partnership extends beyond government and First Nations organizations. Southern Health is actively involved in providing necessary medical support for the evacuees. Both the First Nations communities from which the evacuees originate and Long Plain First Nation are deeply involved in offering support on the ground.
Knox expressed optimism regarding the preparations, stating, “The plans and the logistics in place seem to be running smoothly at this point.” The mayor also conveyed the community’s desire for the evacuees to be comfortable during their stay. A province-wide state of emergency has been extended from July 10 for 30 days to August 22 due to ongoing wildfires. Under the Emergency Measures Act, the 2025 wildfire season has been the worst on record over the last 30 years.
To find out more about wildfires, fire bans and more visit https://mbready.manitoba.ca.
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— Renée Lilley is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter who works out of the Portage Graphic. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.