Canadian Red Cross Appeals for $250,000 for Badger Flood Relief
(Grand Falls, NL, February 17, 2003) - The Canadian Red Cross is appealing to the public to assist them in providing for the immediate relief needs of the residents left homeless following the severe flooding in Badger, Newfoundland & Labrador.
Saturday, February 15, 2003, the town of Badger, NL experienced severe flooding, resulting in an evacuation of the entire town. The Canadian Red Cross has been working closely with municipal and provincial authorities to provide relief assistance to the evacuated residents.
"Initial assessment of the situation indicates that the relief efforts could last many days and we are appealing to the public for help to meet the immediate needs of the evacuees," says Rhonda Kenney, Regional Director for Newfoundland and Labrador Region of the Canadian Red Cross. "The people of Badger have been forced to leave their homes and belongings behind. Some have needed shelter, while others have required food and clothing. Our appeal will help provide for these basic necessities while they wait for the flood waters to recede."
The Canadian Red Cross has been providing evacuated residents with food, clothing, personal care items and shelter since Saturday. In addition, they have provided support to rescue workers.
"The severe temperatures have complicated the situation," adds Kenney. "The flood waters have been freezing in some places, making it very difficult to assess what may be required for support over the long-term. Therefore, we are limiting our appeal to $250,000, which we need immediately to provide essential relief to the residents of Badger. Once the waters have receded, we will reassess the situation in conjunction with municipal and provincial authorities."
You can help the victims of the Badger Flood by making a donation to the Badger Flood Appeal. Please call 1-800-418-1111, donate on-line or make a donation at any Canadian Red Cross Office. Any funds not used for this disaster will be transferred to the Canadian Disaster Relief Fund for future relief operations.
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Media Contacts:
Cathie Desborough
Director, Public Affairs
Atlantic Zone
1-800-463-4483
Al Pelley
Manager, Fund Development & Communications
Newfoundland and Labrador Region
(709) 758-8403
