Red Cross Aid Flows in Wake of Devastating Cyclone Pam

Topics: Worldwide, Emergencies and Disasters Worldwide
March 15, 2015


(Ottawa, March 15, 2015) The category five cyclone that slammed into the Vanuatu archipelago on March 13, 2015 has left thousands of people in need of shelter, water and first aid. The damage is extensive, with homes destroyed, power and communications down and vital infrastructure impacted. As the full picture of the storm’s destruction comes into focus, the Red Cross is delivering aid to those in need.

“The force of this storm has been truly devastating for thousands of people in the region”, says Hossam Elsharkawi, Director of International Emergencies and Recovery for the Canadian Red Cross. “Shelter, water and health are urgent priorities and we continue to work with local authorities to make sure that people get the help they need”.

Red Cross teams in Vanuatu began providing assistance before the storm made landfall, helping with shelters for thousands of people and pre-positioning relief supplies. As the storm moved through the area, Red Cross has mobilized teams from neighbouring countries to assess the damage and support the delivery of much needed help.

“The Red Cross is the world’s largest disaster aid organization, with support from volunteers and citizens around the world”, says Elsharkawi. “Whenever a local Red Cross needs support responding to a disaster, like Cyclone Pam, we are able to mobilize our global resources and channel help into the affected area”. 

Canadians are encouraged to support people impacted by this disaster by making a donation to the Canadian Red Cross Cyclone Pam Relief Fund at www.redcross.ca, by calling 1-800-418-1111 or by contacting their local Canadian Red Cross office.

About the Canadian Red Cross
Here in Canada and overseas, the Red Cross stands ready to help people before, during and after a disaster. As a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, which is made up of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross and 189 national Red Cross and Red Crescent societies, the Canadian Red Cross is dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and throughout the world.

For more information and interview requests:
Canadian Red Cross media line, 1-613-740-1994
Quebec media can call 1-888-418-9111
Section Widgets