Canadian Red Cross releases an overview of its tsunami assistance plan
(Ottawa, January 24, 2005) — The Canadian Red Cross today released an overview of its tsunami assistance plan, to be delivered in two phases: emergency relief and long term rehabilitation. The plan developed in coordination with the International Federation of Red Cross and
Red Crescent Societies (Federation) and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) was presented by Canadian Red Cross Secretary General Dr. Pierre Duplessis upon his return from visiting disaster ravaged areas of India and Sri Lanka.
“Canadian aid is on the ground and providing relief to thousands of people in need,” said Dr. Duplessis. “Emergency relief is coming in from around the world as experts identify the complex challenges and deal with difficult transportation conditions. Red Cross assessment teams are now planning for longer term programs in the affected countries.”
The Canadian Red Cross tsunami assistance plan includes:
Emergency relief phase (up to 3 months)
Initial projection: $60 million
- Shipment of relief supplies from Canada to tsunami-affected countries: $33 million
These relief supplies include: - 200 tons of water purification supplies, shelter materials and other equipment to Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Myanmar, Malaysia and the Maldives
- 50,000 family hygiene kits to Sri Lanka (in progress)
- 60,000 baby supply kits to Indonesia (in progress)
- Additional relief supplies to be sent to the affected countries (in progress)
- Deployment of Canadian Red Cross relief workers to the tsunami affected countries: $1.2 million
- Support to the Federation and ICRC in providing assistance such as transportation and distribution of relief supplies; field hospitals and clinics; disease prevention programs; water and sanitation systems; shelters for displaced or homeless people; and search and rescue operations: $25.8 million
Long term rehabilitation phase (at least 10 years)
Initial projection: balance of funds received
Some projects being considered:
- Community health care and psychological support programs
- Housing construction and job creation programs
- Helping families find and connect with relatives in disaster areas through Restoring Family Links Program
- Expertise and funding to build Red Cross programs developed and operated by local staff and volunteers in affected countries(including disaster preparedness programs)
- Funds to support Federation rehabilitation activities
The Canadian public has already generously pledged $128.7 million towards the Canadian Red Cross tsunami appeal. Canadian corporations have contributed an additional $7 million and provincial and territorial governments have pledged another $19.3 million—funds which will boost the Red Cross’s long term rehabilitation programs. The Canadian International Development Agency has already provided $4.5 million and will match all public funds raised by the Canadian Red Cross. “All money collected for our tsunami appeal is dedicated to be used solely for our emergency relief and long term rehabilitation programs in the tsunami-affected countries,” said Dr. Duplessis.
“Red Cross was quick to respond because we have people and programs in so many of the affected areas and were able to quickly build on an existing base,” said Dr. Duplessis. “In the emergency phase we immediately sent relief flights and personnel. Thousands of Red Cross staff and volunteers in the tsunami-affected countries have provided search and rescue, clean-up, temporary shelter, relief assistance, emergency medical assistance, psychological support programs and family reunification services.” Some 76 Red Cross relief and medical teams are providing vital assistance in the disaster-affected areas.
“Canadian Red Cross will fund programs overseas for at least 10 years. It will take a generation to rebuild. The generosity of our donors puts the Red Cross in an excellent position to adapt to the changing needs in the tsunami-affected countries and direct funds as needs evolve.”
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 181 national Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. The Canadian Red Cross mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world.
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For more information contact:
Suzanne Charest
Canadian Red Cross
Tel: (613) 740-1928
Cel: (613) 222-6196
