Scotiabank branches across Canada are now accepting donations to the Red Cross in support of their relief efforts in Africa.
A cycle of severe droughts has led to a humanitarian crisis in the Horn of Africa, which includes Somalia, Kenya, Djibouti, Ethiopia and Uganda. It is estimated that nearly 11 million people have been affected, many fleeing their homes, and are now left with limited access to food, clean water and shelter.
The Red Cross/Red Crescent movement has a strong presence in the Horn of Africa and is actively scaling up operations to meet the urgent needs of affected communities.
Scotiabank branches will be accepting donations until Sept. 16 and the government of Canada has pledged to match individual donations.
As well, B.C. liquor store customers can help support current Red Cross drought relief efforts in the Horn of Africa by making donations at any one of the 197 BC Liquor Stores located in communities across the province.
Until Thursday, Sept.15, customers are able to make donations of $2 or $5 — or multiples thereof — at all provincial liquor store checkouts.
All provincial donations will be matched by the Government of Canada.
The liquor stores are unable to issue tax receipts for donations. Customers who require tax receipts are encouraged to donate directly to the Canadian Red Cross.
— News Staff