September 30, 2010
Ottawa, Ontario - The Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, today reminds Canadians that only three days remain for Canadians to donate to charities eligible for the Government of Canada's matching fund that will help people affected by the flooding in Pakistan.
Minister Oda recently travelled to Pakistan to evaluate the devastation first-hand and met with officials from Canadian and international humanitarian agencies active in the field. "The area impacted by the floods in Pakistan equals the size of Great Britain and has affected more than 21 million people. The floods have deprived some of the poorest segments of Pakistan of their farms, homes and livelihoods," said Minister Oda. "Canadians have always been generous in helping the most vulnerable in their time of need. With only three days left in the matching period, the Government of Canada encourages everyone to continue their support for the people of Pakistan by contributing to the matching fund."
Pakistan has seen the worst flooding in more than 80 years. The floods have had a severe impact on some of the poorest and most vulnerable regions of the country. Flooding has left more than 10 million people in need of emergency assistance, has caused millions more to be displaced, and has destroyed up to 85 percent of the infrastructure in the affected regions.
For every donation made by individual Canadians to eligible, registered Canadian charities from August 2 to October 3, the Government of Canada will contribute an equivalent amount to the Pakistan Flood Relief Fund. The Fund provides effective and accountable financial support for humanitarian assistance, early recovery, and reconstruction efforts in the affected areas.
The Government of Canada is proud to be working with experienced Canadian and international humanitarian and development partner organizations such as Save the Children, CARE, OXFAM, and the Canadian Red Cross Society to deliver much-needed assistance to the people of Pakistan.
Our government responded quickly to flood relief efforts in Pakistan, and has provided $40.5 million in funding to date. The Canadian International Development Agency has contributed to the provision of emergency food, water, sanitation, shelter, non-food items, and health services. The Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade is providing support for the restoration of links to communities cut off by flooding.
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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
