/R E P E A T -- Red Cross Responds to Hurricane Matthew/

OTTAWA, Oct. 4, 2016 /CNW/ - The Red Cross is providing emergency assistance following Hurricane Matthew, a category four hurricane that is wreaking havoc in Caribbean countries, with already devastating impact in Haiti. Canadians are encouraged to help support emergency response efforts by making a donation to the Canadian Red Cross.

"Destruction from Hurricane Matthew has left thousands in desperate need of emergency relief, including shelter, water and healthcare," says Hossam Elsharkawi, Associate Vice President, International Operations for the Canadian Red Cross. "Red Cross staff and volunteers from around the world and across the Caribbean and Central America have jumped into action to provide immediate aid to those in need."

Haitians will be left in extremely vulnerable conditions after the hurricane passes, with early indications of heavy flooding and extensive damage to housing, infrastructure and crops. There will be a great need for healthcare and access to clean drinking water, as the potential for waterborne illnesses and disease outbreaks will be high following heavy rains.

"The Canadian Red Cross is actively responding, with two Canadians deployed to join Red Cross teams stationed in Haiti, and aid supplies sent including tarps and blankets," adds Elsharkawi. "As the world's largest humanitarian organization, the strength of the Red Cross is our combination of community-based and global support." 

Canadians wishing to help people impacted by this disaster may make a donation to the Canadian Red Cross Hurricane Matthew Appeal online at www.redcross.ca, by calling 1-800-418-1111 or by contacting their local Canadian Red Cross office.

About the Canadian Red Cross

Here in Canada and overseas, the Red Cross stands ready to help people before, during and after a disaster. As a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement – which is made up of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross and 190 national Red Cross and Red Crescent societies – the Canadian Red Cross is dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and throughout the world. 

SOURCE Canadian Red Cross

Canadian Red Cross Media Line: 1-877-599-9602; Quebec Media Line: 1-888-418-9111