New match fund amplifies Canada's role in the escalating Myanmar refugee crisis, says World Vision
Oct 31, 2017, 13:51 ET
Refugee children are crossing from Myanmar to Bangladesh at an alarming rate between 1200 and 1800 per day
MISSISSAUGA, ON, Oct. 31, 2017 /CNW/ - World Vision is encouraged by the Government of Canada's announcement of a match fund program that empowers Canadians to help the nearly 900,000 refugees who have fled Myanmar to neighbouring Bangladesh.
With camp numbers continuing to rise, the situation continues to worsen, ongoing financial commitments are critical to meet the immense needs of refugees. More than half of those affected are children under five who are both severely malnourished and traumatized.
World Vision is responding, alongside partners, with basic necessities including, food, water and shelter at refugee sites along the border, but is concerned about the growing number of refugees arriving daily at the camp. More assistance is desperately needed.
"The Myanmar – Bangladesh refugee crisis is the most important challenge we have faced in recent times. It is a huge crisis. We know the numbers. We know the facts. We have seen the horrific images. It is an issue that will not go away soon and demands a whole-hearted commitment to resolve," says World Vision's director in Bangladesh, Fred Witteveen.
"I want to assure you that we are standing beside the vulnerable and heart-breaking refugee communities in Cox's Bazar. It is our mission and priority. Out of solidarity with the most vulnerable, World Vision calls every humble heart, every donor, and every affluent country to please come forward and stand with us beside the Myanmar refugees in Bangladesh. Your contribution will make a difference."
The Government of Canada's match fund commitment has the potential to reach hundreds of thousands of the world's most vulnerable people, namely children.
"This is a humanitarian crisis that must be addressed diplomatically and Canada has a valuable role to play," says Michael Messenger, President, World Vision Canada. "Canadians can have an immediate impact in providing life-saving support to vulnerable children and families through donations to aid agencies who are working on the ground, including World Vision."
MEDIA RESOURCES
Photos HERE and HERE
Video HERE
HOW CANADIANS CAN HELP:
Website donations: HERE
World Vision is a Christian relief, development, and advocacy organization working to create lasting change in the lives of children, families, and communities to overcome poverty and injustice. Inspired by our Christian values, World Vision is dedicated to working with the world's most vulnerable people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender.
SOURCE World Vision Canada
For interviews contact: Joanne Legin - 416-738-7720 or Joanne_Legin@worldvision.ca
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