Nine banks unite to support Canadian Red Cross' British Columbia flood relief efforts
Branch locations are accepting donations across Canada
TORONTO, May 18, 2018 /CNW/ - With flood levels in areas of British Columbia at their highest level in 70 years and no sign of receding, nine banks have come together to accept customer donations at branch locations across Canada to help the Canadian Red Cross deliver immediate and long-lasting relief for those affected.
Banks are also making corporate contributions, mobilizing employee fundraising and arranging special payment options for people impacted by the floods.
Local Red Cross volunteers are on the ground providing critical support services including family reunification and registration, lodging, food, first aid, reception and information, and cots and blankets. The Red Cross has additional volunteers and supplies pre-positioned and ready to be deployed if needed.
HOW CANADIANS CAN HELP
The following banks are accepting customer donations through their branch networks from May 17 to June 15 at a minimum:
- BMO
- Canadian Western Bank
- CIBC
- HSBC Bank Canada
- Laurentian Bank
- National Bank
- RBC
- Scotiabank
- TD
People can also support by donating online at www.redcross.ca, by calling 1-800-418-1111 or by contacting their local Canadian Red Cross office.
QUOTES
"With the BC government committing to match donations, now is the time to act. Banks have come together to accept customer contributions at their branch locations to support the heroic and ongoing efforts of the Canadian Red Cross for the people, families and businesses affected by flooding in British Columbia. Thank you to everyone who is going above and beyond to bring relief and hope to communities that are experiencing the worst floods in more than 70 years."
-- Neil Parmenter, President and CEO, Canadian Bankers Association
"The current flooding in British Columbia has created an immensely difficult situation for many residents, with a second wave of flood waters expected in the region. In times of disaster the Red Cross mobilizes to help vulnerable people. Thanks to the support of participating banks and the Canadian Bankers Association we are able to ensure there are options for Canadians wanting to make a donation to help those in need."
-- Conrad Sauvé, President and CEO, Canadian Red Cross
Canadian Red Cross
Here in Canada and overseas, the Red Cross stands ready to help people before, during and after a disaster. As a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement – which is made up of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross and 190 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies – the Canadian Red Cross is dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and throughout the world.
Canadian Bankers Association
The Canadian Bankers Association is the voice of more than 60 domestic and foreign banks that help drive Canada's economic growth and prosperity. The CBA advocates for public policies that contribute to a sound, thriving banking system to ensure Canadians can succeed in their financial goals. www.cba.ca.
SOURCE Canadian Bankers Association
Contacts: National Canadian Red Cross Media Line: 1-877-599-9602; Quebec Canadian Red Cross Media Line: 1-888-418-9111; Canadian Bankers Association: David Bauer, Director, Media Relations & Social Media, 1-800-263-0231, (416) 918-2777
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