Canada to provide additional $20 million in aid to Turkey and Syria
The earthquakes that shook this part of the world caused the death of more than 47,000 people.
Hundreds of thousands lost their homes in the earthquakes that hit Turkey and Syria. (File photo)
The federal government will provide an additional $20 million in humanitarian assistance to Turkey and Syria following recent earthquakes in both countries.
Minister for International Development , Harjit Sajjan, announced Friday that Canada will also match donations from the public to the tune of $10 million. This amount will be donated to the Humanitarian Coalition and is in addition to the $10 million pledged to the Red Cross.
“Coordinated and thoughtful humanitarian action is essential to an effective response on the ground. By working with these experienced humanitarian partners, Canada is ensuring that its aid reaches the people who need it most quickly.
—Harjit Sajjan, Minister for International Development
This announcement comes following the call for assistance from the United Nations. Federal MPs had also urged the government to extend its matching funds program to other organizations.
Police transport an injured man after an aftershock hit the city of Antakya, Hatay province. (File photo)
The Humanitarian Coalition, which includes organizations like Oxfam, World Vision and Plan International, provides lifesaving services such as emergency food, cash and vouchers, as well as water, sanitation and health care services needed.
Two powerful earthquakes and hundreds of aftershocks struck Turkey and Syria on February 6, damaging tens of thousands of buildings and killing more than 47,000 people.
According UNICEF says more than a million people are living in temporary shelters like gymnasiums, stadiums, hotel rooms and dormitories. They have limited access to essential services.
Children and families who survived the earthquakes face homelessness, lack of food and lack of food. water. Temperatures often dip below freezing at night, said UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia Afshan Khan.
Turkish authorities said on Friday that the preliminary phase of reconstruction work had begun. According to the Minister of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change, Marat Kurum, excavation works are underway in the towns of Nurdagi and Islahiye, in the province of Gaziantep, where the government plans to build 855 residences.
