World Vision comments on Canada's announcement at the G20 of an additional $45 million for Syria:

TORONTO, Sept. 6, 2013 /CNW/ - World Vision's President and CEO, Dave Toycen, said:

"The Canadian government's commitment of an additional $45 million in humanitarian support for the people of Syria is critical. For children and families living in horrific conditions without basic necessities, the programs this funding supports will be a lifeline. Many are escaping terrifying violence and have suffered injury, torture and serious deprivation. The need is great, especially for children who have been caught in the middle of this conflict and are now huddled with their remaining family members and need food, clean water and protection."

"This conflict has reached a critical point with 100,000 people losing their lives—including more than 7,000 children. Thousands more have witnessed atrocities firsthand. As humanitarian workers, we see firsthand what conflict does to children and we call for a peaceful and negotiated end to this crisis as quickly as possible."

"Canadians are always incredibly generous in emergencies where children are at risk. I'm urging them to open their hearts to the children who are caught in this conflict, and help us get them the lifesaving aid they desperately need."

World Vision's response to the Syrian crisis:
World Vision is providing support for over 240 thousand children and their families through its relief operations in Lebanon, Jordan and Syria with the support of Canadian donors and the Canadian government.

• In Lebanon, World Vision is supporting Syrian refugees with the provision of food and cash vouchers, non-food items, such as baby supplies and water filters, as well as providing child protection services such as our child friendly spaces.
• In Jordan, World Vision provides food vouchers and rent assistance for Syrian families who are struggling to find accommodation. We will also be providing water and sanitary services for almost 30,000 people in the Azraq refugee camp as well as working to rehabilitate water and sanitation infrastructure in schools, which are overwhelmed with the influx of refugee children.
• For security reasons, World Vision cannot discuss its work inside Syria, but we are supporting projects to provide health care, water and sanitation services to people who have been displaced by the conflict.

To make a donation to World Vision Canada's Syrian refugee response, visit www.worldvision.ca or call 1-800-268-5528

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

SOURCE: World Vision Canada

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