Press Releases

Toronto: The United Church of Canada congratulated the federal government today for its commitment to provide an additional $50 million in financial support to humanitarian organizations delivering assistance to people in East Africa who are suffering as a result of the worst drought in 60 years.

The church also welcomed the government’s decision to establish the East Africa Drought Relief Fund which will be used to benefit those most affected by the drought. 

In addition The United Church of Canada congratulated the federal government on its commitment to match the charitable donations of Canadians who take action to support charities of their choice. 

“These matching funds will encourage Canadians from all walks of life to provide direct support to organizations that are working in East Africa right now,” says David Armour, The United Church of Canada’s Director of Philanthropy.

The United Church of Canada is providing humanitarian relief in the region through its partners, including ACT Alliance, the National Council of Churches in Kenya, and the Organization of African Instituted Churches.  Earlier this week the United Church announced it was launching an Emergency Appeal for the Horn of Africa to respond to this humanitarian crisis. Today’s announcement means that funds raised through this appeal between July 6, 2011 and September 16, 2011, will be matched by the federal government.

Members of the United Church and the general public are encouraged to contribute to the work of ACT and the United Church’s partners on the ground in East Africa by making a donation today.

For more information, please contact:

• Mary-Frances Denis
  Media and Public Relations
  The United Church of Canada
  Tel: 416-231-7680 ext. 2016
  Toll-free: 1-800-268-3781 ext. 2016
  E-mail: Mary-Frances Denis