Alberta legislature, file photo. (Image: Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko / with files from rdnewsNOW

Alberta government helping Pakistan after catastrophic floods

Sep 20, 2022 | 11:11 AM

EDMONTON, AB – Alberta’s government is joining efforts with the Canadian Red Cross to help the victims of flooding in Pakistan.

The government says it will match every donation Albertans and Albertan organizations make to the Canadian Red Cross, up to a maximum of $500,000.

The funds are expected to help the Canadian Red Cross provide support to millions of people in Pakistan where floods, flash floods, and landslides have affected more than 30 million people, killed more than 1,200 people, and left thousands injured and homeless.

Premier Jason Kenney says Albertans are stepping up to help the people of Pakistan through this humanitarian crisis.

“We hope this grant will encourage Albertans to give what they can to help those impacted by this disaster. Alberta’s contribution will support the Red Cross’s efforts to provide essential relief items such as food, shelter, water and medicines,” says Kenney.

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Minister of Municipal Affairs Ric McIver adds that the floods have caused significant losses to the people of Pakistan.

“Alberta’s government will match the generous contributions by Albertans to raise funds to support a nation devastated by months of heavy rains and flooding,” says McIver. “With support from the Canadian Red Cross, we will be able to get much-needed relief to families and children as they recover from this disaster and begin to rebuild their lives.”

On August 29, 2022, the Government of Canada pledged $5 million in humanitarian assistance to Pakistan. That is in addition to Canada’s $3 million pledge from the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund on August 19.

Canadian Red Cross, Alberta and the Northwest Territories Vice-President Jenn McManus says the support from Canadians is greatly appreciated.

“Record-breaking monsoon rains are threatening the lives and livelihoods of millions of people in Pakistan,” says McManus. “Donations to the Canadian Red Cross Pakistan Floods Appeal from the people of Alberta, and matched by the Government of Alberta, will help support emergency relief and recovery efforts to assist people in Pakistan during this extremely difficult time. The Red Cross is grateful for the support.”

Albertans can learn more or make a donation by visiting www.redcross.ca

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