Refugee crisis: Red Cross in action

Millions of Syrians are displaced both inside Syria and increasingly in neighbouring countries and Europe. An estimated 350,000 people have entered Europe so far this year, fleeing conflict in Syria, but also arriving from Iraq, Afghanistan and parts of Africa. These include many women, children and families.
 
Responding to a crisis of this magnitude requires coordination and collaboration. In the countries affected by the refugee crisis, the Red Cross and Red Crescent movement is providing direct assistance to meet the needs of people seeking safety and refuge.
 
With generous support from donors, the Canadian Red Cross is able to contribute to the humanitarian response with relief items, personnel, as well as financial support.
 

Seven Canadian Red Cross aid workers are currently providing logistical and technical support to the German Red Cross. This is in addition to the 10,000 cots and 10,000 blankets shipped from Canada to the German Red Cross as they offer temporary shelter to refugees arriving in Germany after a long journey.
 
Funds raised by the Canadian Red Cross also help support Red Cross emergency operations in Greece, Serbia, Macedonia and Italy.
 
Dr. Suzana Georgievska volunteers with the Red Cross in Macedonia where she provides medical care to people crossing the border from Greece. She describes what motivates her to continue this work.


 
While the Red Cross is scaling up efforts, more help is urgently needed. Canadians can make a difference by donating to the Refugee Crisis appeal. For every eligible dollar donated by individual Canadians to a registered charity in response to the conflict in Syria, the government will set aside a dollar to its own Syria Emergency Relief Fund.