Emergency Support Service program
Last updated on December 9, 2025
Emergency Support Services (ESS) provides short-term basic support to people impacted by disasters.
The program is financed by the provincial government and administered by Indigenous communities and local governments.
On this page
About ESS
This section contains the details about the provincial ESS program.
- Support services during an emergency is for the general public and covers eligibility, what supports are provided, and how they are delivered
- Launch ESS explains program foundations and how to get started
- Responder resources are only available on the ESS responder hub
- ESS news informs subscribers on program updates and changes
Volunteering for ESS
ESS relies on volunteers to coordinate support services for people forced from their homes in an emergency. Visit Emergency support service (ESS) volunteers to learn what volunteers do and how you can join.
Contact Emergency Support Services
Mailing address
Emergency Support Services
PO Box 9201, Stn Prov Govt
Victoria, B.C. V8W 9J1
General program contact
Email emcr.ess@gov.bc.ca with general program questions.
ESS information centre
During large events the ESS information centre may be available. Evacuees, responders and suppliers can call 1-800-585-9559.
ESS reporting
To report concerns related to fraud or misuse of ESS, or concerns related to fund transfers through the ERA Tool, evacuees, ESS responders or members of the public may email essreporting@gov.bc.ca
ERA technical questions
Evacuees, responders, and suppliers may call 1-844-537-7377 for technical assistance when using the evacuee registration and assistance (ERA) tool.
Supplier reimbursements
Inquiries about outstanding invoices can be directed to to essfinanceinquiries@gov.bc.ca.