Crossroads Credit Union, like most Saskatchewan credit unions, is working with the Canadian Red Cross to collect donations, which will be matched by the federal government, to help refugees forced from their homes because of war.
Last week, when the cooperative fund-raising effort was announced, the credit unions said that the cash donations will be accepted at least until the end of September, the period in which the federal government has pledged to match donations for a total of up to $100 million. The federal program to match Canadian donations will be in effect until December 31.
“This refugee crisis is taking a tremendous toll on families who are forced to flee their homes,” said Sarah Fedirko, manager of corporate appeals for the Red Cross in Saskatchewan. “No single country can handle this crisis alone; a collaborative approach from everyone is required. We can do our part in Saskatchewan by donating to support humanitarian aid being provided to affected families.”
Millions of people are displaced both inside Syria and in neighbouring countries. The Red Cross is providing first aid, medical care, psychological support and distributing food, temporary shelter and other urgently needed items. With no end in sight, help is desperately needed to support families fleeing their homes.
“Credit unions have always been about people helping people,” says Debbie Lane, executive vice-president of SaskCentral. “We are proud that credit unions throughout our province can help by collecting donations for the millions of Syrian refugees who have fled their homes.”
Canadians wishing to support Red Cross efforts can make a financial donation to the Refugee Crisis Appeal online at www.redcross.ca, or by contacting their local Canadian Red Cross office or any Saskatchewan credit union branch until September 30.
A financial donation is the best way to help, as Red Cross/Red Crescent societies already have trained personnel working on the crisis, Fedirko said.
