(Ottawa) – This week, the Canadian Red Cross honours its volunteers during National Volunteer Week, April 21-27. Every year, tens of thousands of volunteers from coast to coast donate their time and energy to improve the lives of vulnerable people in Canada. "This is a time to say thank you to the vast network of volunteers who contribute to the humanitarian work of the Canadian Red Cross and help make a significant impact on communities in need," said Conrad Sauvé, Secretary General and CEO of the Canadian Red Cross.
In Canada, the Canadian Red Cross responds every four hours to an emergency. Over the past year, Canadian communities have relied on dedicated volunteers who have helped provide humanitarian assistance to thousands of people in need. In addition to the countless hours that Canadian Red Cross volunteers spend responding to emergencies, they also work to prevent bullying, provide swimming and first aid lessons, and support international Red Cross and Red Crescent societies around the world.
"The Canadian Red Cross is built on the strength of our volunteers," added Sauvé. "Our commitment to volunteerism and community support is the core strength of the Canadian Red Cross and it will only continue to grow as our volunteers and staff work side by side to carry out our mission."
In the past year, over 45,000 people were directly assisted by Canadian Red Cross volunteers for disasters in Canada. The Canadian Red Cross also sent 69 volunteers to assist the American Red Cross with the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, one of the larger-scale disasters that hit close to home this past year. The Canadian Red Cross has over 6,000 trained volunteers who stand ready to respond day and night 365 days a year.
The Canadian Red Cross is a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, which includes the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross and 187 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Our mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world.