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

OTTAWA, May 13 - The Canadian Red Cross is pleased to announce that eight banks in Canada are accepting cash donations in support of Red Cross relief efforts in Western Canada. Thousands of people have been forced from their homes and the situation continues to unfold, particularly in Manitoba.

"Our local volunteers have been working hard for weeks to support affected communities," says Ange Sawh, director of the Canadian Red Cross disaster management team in Western Canada. "We are grateful to participating banks for making it even easier for Canadians to support Red Cross relief and recovery operations in affected communities."

Donations to the Canadian Red Cross will help support families in their recovery. The Canadian Red Cross plays a vital role during flood recovery by supporting specific vulnerabilities that require help right away and aid for families who need support beyond provincial disaster assistance. This may include household repair and clean-up materials, replacement items for children such as cribs, occupational and transportation support and replacement of essential health items.

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 Western Canada Severe Weather or can be earmarked to individual provinces.

The following banks are accepting financial donations from May 13 to June 13, 2011:

• BMO Financial Group
• Canadian Western Bank
• CIBC
• HSBC Bank 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.