Tech Talk 3

Update: The Be Ready app is no longer supported as of the end of 2020. Find out apps and resources for up-to-date information and alerts. 

 

Many of us use various smartphone apps that help make our days more social, more efficient and a lot more fun. But did you know there’s a new app to help refugees feel more at home in their new communities? 

The current refugee crisis is highlighting how important technology, including smart phones, social media and the Internet, has become to people affected by humanitarian crises.

From the moment the Ebola outbreak was first discovered earlier this year in West Africa, technology has been playing an important role in detecting its spread, initially in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone.

A recent addition to the Canadian Red Cross website now makes it easier for people in Ontario to locate community support services in their area. A new listings directory enhances the experience for visitors to the site who are looking for Red Cross support services such as nutritional assistance through Meals on Wheels or rides to and from medical appointments.

In the Philippino province of Ilo Ilo, a smartphone app is helping the Red Cross kick off an ambitious plan to build or repair homes caught up in the destruction of Typhoon Haiyan.

Did you know that in 140 characters or less or by posting on Facebook you can help the Canadian Red Cross carry out our mission during a disaster. Meet two members of the Social Team who love what they do. 

Matt Hewett was among those who deployed to the Philippines in those early days of the emergency response after Typhoon Haiyan caused significant damage in the country. He’s an Information Services Manager with the Canadian Red Cross, which at first glance may not sound like a typical career path for a humanitarian worker. However, information management is critical when it comes to coordinating a large-scale response and ensuring the right aid is delivered to those who need it the most.