Banks in Canada accepting donations for Red Cross flood response operations in Quebec

(Ottawa, May 11, 2011) – The Canadian Red Cross is pleased to announce that nine banks in Canada are accepting cash donations in support of Red Cross relief efforts in Quebec. To date, some 3,500 residents have been impacted by floods in 70 areas and hundreds of families have been forced to evacuate their homes.

“Our local volunteers have been working around the clock to meet the most urgent needs in affected communities,” says Michel Léveillé, director general of the Canadian Red Cross Quebec Division. “Canadians are always generous when disaster strikes and we are grateful to participating banks for making it even easier for Canadians to support Red Cross relief operations.”

Funds raised will be used to provide immediate aid and recovery to people most affected by this disaster. This includes temporary shelter, food and supplies to meet urgent personal needs and the needs of children. Assistance will be disbursed through a detailed aid program and will be available to those who have experienced a complete loss or major damage to their home.  

Canadians can give online, call toll-free at 1-800-418-1111 or visit their local Red Cross office or one of the participating bank branches. Cheques should be earmarked Quebec Floods 2011.

The following banks are accepting financial donations from May 11 to June 10, 2011:

• BMO Financial Group
• Canadian Western Bank
• CIBC
• HSBC Bank Canada
• Laurentian Bank of Canada
• National Bank Financial Group
• RBC
• Bank of Nova Scotia
• TD Bank Group

The Canadian Red Cross is a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, which includes the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the International Committee of the Red Cross and 187 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Our mission is to improve the lives of vulnerable people by mobilizing the power of humanity in Canada and around the world.                    

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For more information please contact
Canadian Red Cross Media Line
(613) 740-1994