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Supporting families in Manitoba now and the months ahead

Earthquake in Japan

 
The Canadian Red Cross continues to help flood-affected families in Manitoba. Brandon, the second largest city in the province, is the latest community threatened, with hundreds of people evacuated.

“Canadian Red Cross volunteers are registering individuals evacuated in Brandon so that they receive the help they need from provincial disaster partners, such as shelter and food,” says Ange Sawh, the Canadian Red Cross director for disaster management in Western Canada. “We’re also preparing to support families in Brandon, and throughout the provincial flood zone, with longer-term needs.”

The Canadian Red Cross plays a vital role during flood recovery in Manitoba by supporting specific vulnerabilities that require help right away and aid for families who need support beyond provincial disaster assistance. This may include household repair and clean-up materials, replacement items for children such as cribs, occupational and transportation support and replacement of essential health items.

Donations to the Canadian Red Cross will help support families in their recovery. “The Canadian Red Cross provides a wide range of recovery support,” says Sawh. “Many families will return to homes filled with mud and debris and will require urgent support to make their houses habitable once again. In this situation, the Canadian Red Cross will provide clean-up materials such as mops, buckets and disinfectant. For others, donations will help people get back on their feet by supporting repairs to homes or transportation to and from work.” The Canadian Red Cross does not duplicate support already provided by other agencies or the Province, but will provide complementary help where vulnerabilities exist.

The water in some communities is expected to remain high into June, leaving many individuals without an income for weeks. For others, livelihoods may be destroyed altogether. The situation continues to unfold but it is clear that the needs will be great. Canadians who wish to help are encouraged to make a financial donation. Click here to donate online or visit your local Red Cross office.

Posted: May 11, 2011

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