By David F. Rooney
The Rotary Club has voted to donate $500 to relief efforts in the Philippines which has suffered a one-two punch this autumn — first a devastating earthquake in September and now a typhoon, which some reports have suggested may have killed at least 10,000 people.
Other Revelstokians who want to help can do so by donating cash — which the federal government says it will match dollar-for-dollar — to a registered charity involved in disaster relief.
News reports from Ottawa reported on Sunday that International Development Minister Christian Paradis said an estimated 9.5 million people have been affected by Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines, with more than 600,000 displaced. He added that the Philippine Red Cross has conservatively estimated a death toll of about 1,200 people, but “that number is expected to increase as more affected areas become accessible.”
“The destruction from Typhoon Haiyan is alarming,” Mr. Paradis said during a conference call with reporters on Sunday, adding that the government is still trying to determine what kind of help is needed. “The situation is evolving rapidly and we are making sure Canada stays on top of it.”
Mr. Paradis said the money in the matching fund would be used to support relief efforts in the area. There is no cap on the total amount the federal government will provide, he said, although individual donations will only be matched up to $100,000.
Canadians wishing to help individuals affected by this storm are encouraged to make a financial donation online, at their local Red Cross office or by calling 1-800-418-1111. Please earmark donations “Typhoon Haiyan.” Funds will be used to support Red Cross efforts in all countries affected by the storm.
Please click here to donate money online to the Typhoon Haiyan Disaster Relief Fun.
