Volunteers from Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) have been helping the community of the northern Saskatchewan village of Denare Beach recover and rebuild homes after the devastating wildfire in May 2025.

In late May 2025, the Wolf wildfire destroyed more than 200 structures in the remote village of 850 people. Located about 400 kilometres north of Saskatoon, Denare Beach lost its southern half to the wildfire.

As the community takes steps to rebuild after the devastating fire, volunteers from Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS) are helping build new houses. Founded in 1950, the charity’s goal is to repair and rebuild the homes of people impacted by disasters such as wildfires, floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes in Canada and the U.S.

MDS volunteers came to Denare Beach from across Canada and the U.S., serving for a minimum of one week. Community members are calling these volunteers heroes for freely giving their time to come and help people they don’t even know. MDS is building five of the 68 new homes being built in the community. The recipients of new houses were selected based on their financial need, age, disability, and other challenges.

The volunteers involved in MDS’s rebuilding efforts say they simply wanted to give back, stay active, or help others in need. Their kindness has made a lasting impact on the community, with local leaders praising their compassion and dedication.

Source: John Longhurst, Canadian Affairs