Note: The following appeal is now closed. You can support our ongoing work by donating to the Canadian Red Cross
Severe flooding across Southern Africa has left tens of thousands of people homeless across six countries. The worst affected country is Mozambique, where at least 55,000 people have been evacuated from their homes and has declared a state of emergency. Heavy rains have also wreaked havoc across Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, Lesotho and Swaziland.
Local Red Cross Societies have mobilized hundreds of volunteers and staff to help distribute relief items including tarpaulins, insecticide-treated bed nets, blankets, jerry cans, soap and kitchen utensils, as well as tools to build and repair water and sanitation facilities.
The Canadian International Development Agency swiftly donated $400,000 to support Red Cross relief efforts in affected communities.
As part of the Government of Canada’s Rapid Response Project that deploys trained humanitarians and/or supplies to areas affected by natural disasters, Canadian Red Cross delegate Dr. Sandra Allaire will be deployed to Zambia. In addition, the Canadian Red Cross is also deploying delegate Colin MacKay to join the relief efforts.
The Canadian Red Cross is appealing to Canadians to give generously to support the tremendous humanitarian needs across Southern Africa. Funds raised will be used to provide survivors with basic supplies, emergency shelter, and to ensure people have access to health care and clean water. More detailed assessments are being carried out to determine the longer-term needs of vulnerable communities.
Canadians are urged to help ease the suffering of this humanitarian crisis. Those wishing to support relief and recovery activities are encouraged to contribute by donating online, calling 1-800-418-1111 or contacting their local Canadian Red Cross office. Cheques should be made payable to the Canadian Red Cross, earmarked “Southern Africa Floods” and mailed to the Canadian Red Cross National Office, 170 Metcalfe Street, Suite 300, Ottawa, Ontario, K2P 2P2.