Canada Will Give Central America US$2 Million in Flood Aid

Marketwire
Canadian Minister of International Cooperation Beverley J. Oda today announced that Canada will provide humanitarian assistance to those affected by flooding in Central America. Over recent months, flooding in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua has affected almost two million people. "The devastating floods in Central America continue to threaten the health and safety of those affected," said Minister Oda. "The people of Central America face a serious humanitarian crisis and Canada is contributing to help those in need."

Since the first week of October, large parts of Central America have experienced torrential rains, leading to severe flooding and landslides in several countries. In the most severely affected countries of El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, the total affected population currently stands at approximately 1.9 million. All four of these countries have made appeals for international assistance.

Diane Ablonczy, Minister of State of Foreign Affairs (Americas and Consular Affairs), expressed her sympathies: "Canada has a strong commitment to our neighbours in Central America, and we will help those affected by the heavy rains and flooding, which has left so many families in need."

Canada, through the Canadian International Development Agency, will provide up to US$2 million to international and Canadian organizations responding to this crisis. (11/4/11)