As members of the community gathered at the Markham Civic Centre today to learn more about Red Cross response to the floods in Pakistan, The Sprott Foundation came forward with a donation of $500,000 to support their efforts.
"The Sprott Foundation decided to make this announcement public to encourage other Canadians to give what they can in support of the relief efforts in Pakistan," said Juliana Sprott, vice president of The Sprott Foundation. "We also wanted to let the people of Pakistan know that our family cares about them and their families."
These are the worst floods the country has experienced in 80 years, affecting an estimated 20 million people. Relief is reaching many affected communities; however, this disaster is still unfolding. Immediate priorities are food, clean drinking water, tents and medical assistance.
"After the flood waters recede, the humanitarian needs will remain and we plan to work alongside the Pakistan Red Crescent to help the country recover from this massive disaster," said Ron Kelusky, director general for the Red Cross in Ontario. "Our efforts are possible only through the generous support of Canadians - individuals, governments, corporations and organizations such as The Sprott Foundation are making a difference right now in Pakistan, but this emergency is far from over."
Red Cross Program Manager for Pakistan, Faisil Mahboob, joined the event by phone to share with attendees what he is seeing on the ground.
"We know this situation is weighing heavily on the minds of many Canadians who are worried about their loved ones, and we want to keep them informed," said Kelusky.
The Canadian Red Cross (CRC) has been working in Pakistan since the earthquake of 2005 and was able to mobilise swiftly to support the thousands of Pakistan Red Crescent volunteers who responded immediately. The Canadian Red Cross has deployed four mobile health units and a seven-person paramedic team, contributed $2.5 million to the International Red Cross appeal, and in a cooperative effort with the Canadian International Development Agency, deployed $1 million in relief supplies, which are now being distributed in the affected areas by the Red Cross Red Crescent network.