Red Cross Continues to Support Hurricane Victims

EMERGENCY MEASURES ORGANIZATION--Red Cross Continues to Support Hurricane Victims

The Canadian Red Cross is busy fulfilling its commitment to help the most vulnerable people in the aftermath of a disaster.

The Red Cross has been working with its government partners to identify those groups most at risk because of the power outages and damage from Hurricane Juan. Red Cross resources have been mobilized to reach out to these groups including seniors in housing facilities and those in low-income housing areas that are still without power.

In the first phase of their operation on Tuesday, Sept. 30, Red Cross volunteers distributed non-perishable food items to seniors complexes and low income facilities in Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM).

On Wednesday, Oct. 1, the operation escalated to include more than 12 community barbecues and additional food distribution with the support of the Metro Food Bank, the Department of Community Services and the Halifax Emergency Measures Organization. Volunteers from Dalhousie University, Kings College and other groups around the community came out to lend a hand.

Today, Oct.2, the Red Cross continues to work with those communities that are still without power.

"The Canadian Red Cross has been working closely with our partners to address the immediate needs of the most vulnerable individuals in our region" said Bill Campbell, Regional Director of Nova Scotia. "We have been buoyed by the outstanding support of our many volunteers and our community partners".

Emergency Measures Organization minister Ernest Fage has applauded the work of the Red Cross. "We're pleased that the Red Cross was able to respond so quickly and offer food and support to those affected by the hurricane," said Mr. Fage. "As always they worked hard to do what they were called upon to do".

The Canadian Red Cross has been responding to the needs of people throughout HRM as well as other affected parts of the Maritimes since before the hurricane began. Shelters were established on Sunday evening and remained open throughout the storm. Now the agency is reaching out to the community with its emergency response vehicles and more than 100 volunteers.

The Canadian Red Cross helps people affected by emergencies and disasters - situations ranging from a house fire to a flood that disrupts an entire region of the country. Following a disaster, Red Cross works with governments and other humanitarian organizations to provide for people's basic needs - food, clothing, shelter, first aid, emotional support and family reunification.

People who want to make a donation or volunteer can call 1-800- 418-1111.