Banks in Canada accepting donations for Red Cross flood relief efforts in Alberta

OTTAWA, June 26, 2013 /CNW/ - The Canadian Red Cross is pleased to announce that nine banks in Canada are accepting cash donations in support of the Red Cross response to the flooding in Alberta. The flooding has impacted multiple Albertan communities, causing states of local emergency and evacuations, and has affected more than 175,000 people.

"Thanks to the help of these banks, Canadians now have another easy way to contribute to Red Cross relief efforts in Alberta," says Conrad Sauvé, secretary general and CEO of the Canadian Red Cross. "We are grateful to the participating banks for their continued support of Red Cross relief efforts in emergency and disaster situations in Canada and internationally."

The Canadian Red Cross response to this disaster was immediate. The organization has been supporting the municipalities and communities affected and will continue to work closely with officials to ensure that the basic needs of evacuees are being met. Personnel and supplies such as cots, hygiene kits and blankets have been mobilized to meet needs as requested by flood-affected municipalities and counties.

The Canadian Red Cross also continues to support shelters and reception centres in various affected communities, and is providing registration and inquiry services to individuals evacuated from their homes across the province.

Canadians wishing to make a financial donation may donate to the Alberta Floods fund by calling 1-800-418-1111 or by giving online at www.redcross.ca. Canadians can also visit their local Canadian Red Cross office or one of the participating banks in Canada listed below. Cheques should be made payable to the Canadian Red Cross and earmarked "Alberta Floods." Donations will be used to support families' immediate needs and long-term recovery from this disaster.

The following banks are accepting donations from Wednesday, June 26, to Friday, July 26, 2013 in Canada:

BMO Financial Group
Canadian Western Bank
CIBC
HSBC Bank Canada
ING DIRECT - online donations directly from accounts
National Bank Financial Group
RBC
Scotiabank
TD Canada Trust

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 187 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Our mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world.

SOURCE: CANADIAN RED CROSS

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