Nova Scotia Promises Aid Relief

The Nova Scotia government is donating $100,000 to the Canadian Red Cross to help the victims of the earthquake and tsunami that devastated parts of Southeast Asia.

And the province is calling on businesses, unions, and regular Nova Scotians to pledge their support to relief organizations helping the stricken region.

"The tragedy and suffering in Southeast Asia is almost unparalleled," said Premier John Hamm. "At this time of the year, as Nova Scotians reflect on our own good fortune to live here, we all want to do something to help others in such dire need. This is a gesture of support to people we may never meet, but all Nova Scotians know we must help those in such terrible need."

"Nova Scotians have a tradition of reaching out to offer a helping hand in times of need, whether that person is a neighbour or someone half a world away," said NDP Leader Darrell Dexter. "I am proud that our province is able to assist the Red Cross in its efforts to offer relief to survivors and to help prevent further loss of life amid such devastation."

Liberal Leader Francis MacKenzie welcomed the announcement. "While we recognize it is not a large amount of money it is certainly a welcome contribution," he said. "Our hearts reach out for the hurt and anguish that we know has touched so many families, including families in Nova Scotia. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and friends."

Bob Barnes, a Nova Scotian who is a vice-president of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Geneva, called the donation "extremely generous."

"It's heartening to see our provincial government and others across the country making donations," he said. "Usually we look to the federal government for international aid but this is wonderful and we will put it to very good use. The needs are immense, the damage is mind-boggling."

Mr. Barnes said the money will help provide urgently needed shelter, clean water, and medication.

Nova Scotians who wish to make individual donations may contact any of these established relief organizations, recommended by the Canadian International Development Agency: -- The Canadian Red Cross 1-800-418-1111 -- Canadian Organization for Development and Peace 1-888-664-3387 -- World Vision 1-800-268-5528 -- UNICEF Canada 1-877-955-3111 -- Oxfam-Canada 1-800-466-9326 -- CARE Canada 1-800-267-5232 and -- Médecins sans Frontières, 1-800-982-7903.