WINNIPEG - On behalf of the Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, the Honourable Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety, today congratulated Rotary Canada on its 100th anniversary.
"For a century, Canadian Rotary clubs have been adding to the vitality of their communities while never forgetting those living in poverty in developing countries," said Minister Toews. "Rotarians are truly global citizens, and CIDA is proud to partner with Rotary in our international development efforts to strengthen health, literacy, and education for children and youth."
Minister Toews demonstrated the Government of Canada's support of the Rotary's efforts with the announcement of a $3.1 million in funding over three years, which will support their international work in eight countries in Central America and Africa.
The announcement was made.at a Rotary Multi-District Conference in Winnipeg, celebrating the 100th year of Rotary in Canada. Founded in 1910, the Rotary Club of Winnipeg was the first club outside of the United States, thereby establishing Rotary International.
Through the Canadian Rotary Collaboration for International Development (CRCID), today's contribution will help improve the health of infants and young children, provide fresh water and sanitation services, and improve the quality and relevance of basic education in Honduras, Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala, Cameroon, Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda. This initiative is expected to directly benefit more than 144,000 individuals, of which almost 90 percent are children and youth. This project will further benefit another 2 million indirectly.
Also attending the conference was Rotary International President John Kenny, of Scotland.
"I am very pleased to be here amongst so many Canadian Rotarians to celebrate the 100th year of Rotary in Canada. The CRCID has made a significant impact in the lives of millions in the developing world. The Government of Canada's continued support will enable Canadian Rotary clubs to deliver effective aid projects where they are most needed."
The CRCID serves as CIDA's partner for all Canadian Rotary clubs for international development projects. It engages approximately 30,000 Canadian Rotarians in more than 600 communities across Canada.
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Information:
Jessica Fletcher
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Cooperation
Telephone: 819-953-6238
Media Relations Office
Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)
Telephone: 819-953-6534
E-mail: media@acdi-cida.gc.ca
