Media Advisory - World Vision Canada President returns to Haiti

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Jan. 10, 2012 /CNW/ - World Vision Canada President and CEO Dave Toycen is in Haiti this week to mark the second anniversary of the devastating earthquake that struck the country on January 12, 2010. Toycen, who was the first leader of a Canadian humanitarian agency on the ground in the aftermath of the quake, will meet with World Vision staff in Haiti to get an update on the recovery efforts and to learn more about World Vision's programs to promote sustainable, long-term economic development in the country.

"While there have been some successes in Haiti over the past 24 months, the country still faces immense challenges," Toycen says. "With hundreds of thousands of people still living in tents and diseases such as cholera posing risks for children, the international community must not abandon Haiti at this critical time."

Toycen will be available for media interviews throughout the week and will be participating in a news conference on the second anniversary of the earthquake. World Vision's report on its relief work in Haiti, entitled "Haiti - Two Years On" will also be made public at this event.

WHAT: News conference to mark second anniversary of Haiti earthquake and unveil World Vision's "Haiti - Two Years On" report

WHERE: 1 World Drive, Mississauga, Ontario (Highway 401 and Hurontario Street)

WHEN: Thursday, January 12, 2012 - 10:30 am

WHO: Dave Toycen, President and CEO of World Vision Canada (in Haiti) and World Vision staff from Canada and Haiti

Media representatives are advised to arrive at World Vision Canada's offices by 10:15 am for sign-in. World Vision staff will be available to answer questions in both English and French.

World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organization dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. World Vision serves all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender. Visit our News Centre at worldvision.ca

Media can contact:

Bob Neufeld, World Vision Canada - 905-565-6200, ext 3265 (office) or 647-622-2045 (cell)
Kendra Hunter, World Vision Canada - 905-565-6200, ext 3290 (office) or 647-825-3842 (cell)