cbm Canada -Canadian Government to Match Pakistan Relief Funding

STOUFFVILLE, ON, Aug. 24 /CNW/ - Donations for flood aid in Pakistan through cbm Canada will be matched dollar for dollar by the federal government until September 12.

The federal government announced Sunday that it will match private donations to Canadian registered charities for Pakistan flood aid (made between August 2 and September 12), with no upper limit according to Government House leader John Baird.

The new fund is above the $33 million that the government has already pledged to Pakistan for the natural disaster.

Since the crisis began, cbm Canada has been providing life-saving assistance through its trusted partner on the ground to victims of the worst flooding to hit Pakistan in 80 years.

"Whenever there is an emergency, the specific needs of people with disabilities are overlooked," says Ed Epp, Executive Director of cbm Canada.

"cbm is working with its local partners to save lives by providing food, shelter and medical services to those in need in some of the hardest hit regions."

cbm is committed to Pakistan

For the past 30 years, cbm has been working in Pakistan. Extensive health and medical networks have been giving health care, eye care and education services to people struggling to survive the cycle of poverty and disability.

Now, and as the flood waters recede, cbm is focusing its efforts on helping people with disabilities and people most at risk of being disabled as a result of this disaster.

"Through the generosity of Canadian donors, cbm is restoring health to communities, preventing disabilities and rebuilding lives in the days and months to come," says Epp.

Torrential monsoons triggered the flooding in northwest Pakistan in late July, leaving an estimated four million homeless, and affecting up to 20 million people. The official death toll is over 1,500.

Millions of homes and precious farmland have been destroyed by the flooding. The long-term impact will be felt for years to come.

cbm Canada is a leading Christian international development organization with a focus on helping people trapped in the cycle of poverty and disability in the poorest countries of the world regardless of race, religion, age or gender.

cbm has over 100 years of experience and expertise in giving medical care, rehabilitation and advocating on behalf of the poorest of the poor.

Every year, cbm brings hope and transform the lives of more than 23 million people.  www.cbmcanada.org

Charitable Registration No. 10691 8329 RR0001

Interviews and photos upon request. 

For further information:

Media Contact:
Sandy Hazell
National Media Coordinator
cbm Canada
[email protected]
[phone] ext 246;
1-800-567-2264 ext 246
[phone] (cell)