Expressions of Support for the Humanitarian Coalition

The food crisis in the Sahel region of West Africa is not over, but thanks in part to the generosity of Canadians, a large-scale tragedy has been averted. Today, as more than 18 million people, including one million children, continue to fight hunger and malnutrition, Canadians from all walks of life are coming together to help.

The solution to the crisis lies in a concerted effort by all and that is exactly what the Humanitarian Coalition offers.

Our member agencies (CARE Canada, Oxfam Canada, Oxfam-Québec, Plan Canada, Save the Children Canada) are on the ground, already providing much needed assistance.  Help them help the people of the Sahel by making a quick and secure donation at www.together.ca Until September 30^th, the Government of Canada will match every individual donation dollar-for-dollar.

The Humanitarian Coalition is attracting a lot of support from outside the humanitarian sector.

Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson is encouraging the people of our capital city to get involved. “We’re asking residents to give what they can to address this pressing issue in Sahel. Donating to the Humanitarian Coalition can help make a difference and bring hope to those in need,” Watson says.

Ian Bird, President and CEO of Community Foundations of Canada (CFC), stresses the similarities between our two groups: “We encourage Canadians to join with the Humanitarian Coalition to work together to help the world’s most vulnerable people in times of crisis,” he says. “CFC and Humanitarian Coalition members understand that sharing lessons and information ensures a speedier, more effective response. That is why both organizations are proud to support each other’s work.”

Paypal is a members of our Rapid Response Network. As such, it plays a key role during times of humanitarian crisis. “PayPal will continue to waive transaction fees on individual Sahel-relief donations made through the Humanitarian Coalition for the duration of this matching fund program. We are glad to do our part to support the Humanitarian Coalition in providing aid to the people of the Sahel region in their time of crisis,” said Nicky Mezo, PayPal Canada.

Our Rapid Response Network partners, including Bell Media, Shaw Media, CBC, eBay, 20 Vic Management, and the School of International Development and Global Studies at the University of Ottawa, each contribute according to their respective capacity. Of note, our media partners offer free print ads, online banners, and public service announcements, all of which significantly enhances the Humanitarian Coalition’s ability to reach Canadians when disaster strikes.

We thank all our partners and supporters and encourage them to tell their friends and colleagues about the Humanitarian Coalition’s appeal for the Sahel. Together, we are making a difference.