Canadian government matches earthquake relief donations to Humanitarian Coalition

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Ottawa, 24 February 2023 -- The Canadian government has announced that it will match donations to the Humanitarian Coalition and its member charities up to $10 million for emergency assistance to survivors of the earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria.

Twelve leading Canadian charities are working together to respond to the urgent needs of people affected by the unfolding disaster. Beyond search and rescue efforts, millions of people are in critical need of tents, blankets, heaters, food, drinking water and medical care.

According to the World Health Organization and UNOCHA:

Needs are huge, increasing by the hour. Some 26 million people across both countries are in need of humanitarian assistance. More than 47,000 have died with almost 100,000 injured, and the death toll continues to rise. In Türkiye, an estimated one million people have lost their homes and are living in temporary shelters. An estimated 80,000 are in hospital. Türkiye is home to the largest refugee population in the world, hosting 4.2 million people from neighbouring Syria, many of whom have lost everything, again. There is growing concern over emerging health issues linked to cold, hygiene and sanitation and the spread of infectious diseases.

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Richard Morgan, executive director of the Humanitarian Coalition, says, "The scale of this emergency is hard to grasp. The needs are massive and urgent. Our member charities are working tirelessly to save lives, and we are grateful that Canadians across the country are doing their part. The federal government's commitment to match Canadians' donations is a generous and welcome contribution.

"The Humanitarian Coalition has reached the $10 million match target, and will continue accepting funds for the ongoing emergency needs of the people in Türkiye and Syria who have been affected by this disaster."

The following agencies are members of the Humanitarian Coalition: Action Against Hunger, Canadian Foodgrains Bank, Canadian Lutheran World Relief, CARE Canada, Doctors of the World, Humanity & Inclusion, Islamic Relief Canada, Oxfam Canada, Oxfam-Québec, Plan International Canada, Save the Children Canada, World Vision Canada.

Canadians can give to earthquake relief online at together.ca or by calling 1-855-461-2154.  

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The Humanitarian Coalition brings together 12 leading aid organizations to provide Canadians with a simple and effective way to help during large-scale humanitarian emergencies.