How Canadians Can Help
Human suffering caused by natural disasters, armed conflict, economic, political or environmental crises prompts an understandable and heartfelt desire to help. Canadians have always responded generously to international appeals for assistance in times of emergency and disaster. Some citizens have found unique and successful ways of making their own personal contribution to those in need, and their efforts are worthy of praise.
To save lives and alleviate suffering, the response to international emergencies must be timely, effective, appropriate, and well-organized. International coordination of efforts is a key to success. Over many years, the Government of Canada - and governments around the world - have concluded that financial contributions to well-established, experienced relief agencies are the most efficient way to provide assistance to the greatest number of people in need.
These organizations and specialized agencies have many years of experience in providing assistance. They have established information networks, systems for distributing goods, and techniques for assessing needs based on factors such as the victims' way of life, eating habits and religious beliefs. They can often buy goods at special prices, ensuring full value for each dollar donated. Some goods can be bought locally, keeping transportation costs low and stimulating the local economy. These groups monitor the delivery of their assistance in an effort to ensure aid reaches its intended destination.
Canadians can make a difference in times of international emergency or crisis. Individually, or as part of a larger community, you are encouraged to :
- First, contact any number of national or international non-governmental agencies which have the networks necessary to distribute food, clothes and medicines quickly and efficiently. They'll be happy to suggest the best ways to make a meaningful contribution.
- Organize fund-raising events, such as garage sales, auctions or raffles, with the proceeds donated to international relief efforts.
- Volunteer your time or skills to the local office of the agency of your choice.
- Stay involved. Remember that the need for assistance will go on long after the crisis disappears from the headlines. In most cases, rehabilitation and reconstruction following conflict and natural disasters take years.
While donations of goods are made in the spirit of generosity, they can lead to more headaches than relief:
- It is often impossible to ensure the quality of donated goods.
- Transportation costs are extremely high; this is why it is seldom cost-effective to airlift goods from Canada. Using Canadian Forces aircraft is not an alternative, given their normal workload. It is rare that even limited space can be made available for such purposes - and only then with prior Foreign Affairs and International Trade or Canadian International Development Agency support.
- Relief personnel on the ground can lose valuable time sorting and distributing items which are frequently available locally, or much closer to the area in need, at less cost.
- Donations of out-of-date medicines and medical supplies can do more harm than good. Food and clothing may be inappropriate for the region. In some parts of the world, items such as used clothing and blankets are subject to import regulations which require their fumigation or wrapping.
- An emergency is not the time to start trying to establish a distribution network in unfamiliar territory
- The need for search and rescue, lifesaving first aid and other immediate medical procedures is usually short-lived and can be handled by nearby health services. The presence of foreign medical or paramedical personnel who are unfamiliar with the local language and conditions may not be helpful. They become extra people who must be fed and sheltered.
Canadians can assist the victims of disasters and emergencies abroad by contacting international organizations such as:
|