CORCAN lays the foundation for the post wild-fire recovery in Jasper

Two of the 24 modular homes built by CORCAN to support Jasper’s recovery following the 2024 wildfires.

In July 2024, extreme temperatures and high winds fuelled wildfires across Jasper, Alberta. For nearly three months, the fires continued to spread, eventually burning more than 32,700 hectares, an area roughly twice the size of Saskatoon.

More than 3,000 people participated in the firefighting efforts, helping make it possible for residents to return home. In its wake, the wildfires damaged hundreds of structures and created an immediate need for temporary housing as residents, workers and recovery crews began returning to the community.

As the community slowly shifted from emergency response to recovery, CORCAN staff and program participants stepped in to help, laying the foundation for what would become Jasper’s rebuilding efforts.

CORCAN Construction staff and program participants in the region knew they wanted to do something to help the local community as soon as they first heard about the fires.

“I believe there were about 350 structures damaged, CORCAN Construction reached out to Parks Canada letting them know we’re here to assist with any construction related needs they have,” said Jon Maddalozzo, an Operations Manger for CORCAN Construction in the Pacific Region.

The initial request from Parks Canada was for four modular homes on temporary foundations to provide immediate housing relief to the community. But what started as a four-home project quickly grew. Following the delivery of the first units, Parks Canada requested an additional 20 homes.

For CORCAN program participants, the project offered more than an opportunity to support a community in need. It also provided hands-on experience in the skilled trades. As a special

operating agency within CSC, CORCAN helps offenders develop workplace skills and experience that support successful reintegration into the community.

When Parks Canada requested an additional 20 modular homes, the initiative quickly expanded beyond the Pacific Region. Staff and offenders from six institutions across four regions, including more than 60 program participants, contributed to the construction of the homes and the furniture that would ultimately fill them.

In total, 24 homes were constructed and are now occupied in Jasper.

The project highlights the impact of combining skills development with meaningful community contributions. Through more than 1,300 labour hours, CORCAN program participants gained valuable trade experience while helping a community recover and rebuild.