Canada's largest credit unions rally to provide the Red Cross with $150,000 in national flood support

TORONTO, May 13, 2017 /CNW/ - 17 Canadian credit unions have collectively responded to the needs of Canadians in crisis due to record breaking spring flooding and have rallied to donate $150,000 to the Red Cross. 

At a meeting in Halifax with some of Canada's largest credit unions, Rob Paterson, President and CEO of Alterna, was asked about the situation in the Ottawa/Gatineau region. 

"As soon as the extent of the flooding was mentioned, the outpouring of support from the credit union leaders around the table was overwhelming. Within minutes, everyone pledged to support the Red Cross spring flood relief efforts across Canada," said Paterson

17 credit unions confirmed their commitment to support the Red Cross. As of noon today, Affinity, Alterna, Assiniboine, Cambrian, Coast Capital Savings, Connect First, Conexus, FirstOntario, First West, Libro, Meridian, Prospera, Servus, Steinbach, UNI Financial, Vancity and Westminster Savings credit unions had confirmed their contributions, totalling $150,000. 

"Canadian Red Cross volunteers are responding to flooding in several provinces across the country," said Conrad Sauvé, President and CEO, Canadian Red Cross. "The generosity of Canadian credit unions will help us as we continue to support the needs of the most affected individuals and communities."

Canada's credit unions are consistently among the fastest to respond to natural disaster relief, like the fires in Fort McMurray, Alberta last year. Credit union culture is shaped by seven internationally agreed upon cooperative principles, and this is a great example of several of those principles at work for their communities.

The Red Cross has launched an appeal for financial donations to help Canadian individuals, families and communities affected by flooding in several provinces across Canada. Thousands of people have been forced from their homes as the situation continues to unfold across the country. Red Cross is providing a variety of services based on the need in each region, such as food, clothing, shelter and essential supplies.

How Canadians can help
Canadians wishing to help are encouraged to make a donation to the Spring Floods Appeal in one of the following ways:

• online at www.redcross.ca
• by calling the Canadian Red Cross 1-800-418-1111

For more custom quotes please reach out to any of the contributing credit unions:

About the Canadian Red Cross:  www.redcross.ca

SOURCE Alterna Savings and Credit Union

Lead media contact: Alison Boughey - Communications Manager, Alterna Savings, P: 613.560.0150 ext. 6988, C: 343.998.2860, E: [email protected]

Related Links

www.alterna.ca