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Response to the earthquake disaster in Haiti |
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A 7.0-magnitude earthquake devastated the Haitian capital, Port-au-Prince, at about 5 p.m. on Tuesday, January 12. The Red Cross estimated Thursday that between 45,000 and 50,000 people might have died as a result of the earthquake's devastation.
How to help
The best way for Canadians to help is to donate money - not clothing or food. Learn how you can donate.
The federal government has announced it will match Canadians' donations to registered charitable organizations up to $50 million.
Contacting family members, friends
Canadians attempting to contact family members or friends in Haiti can call the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade emergency operation centre at 1-800-387-3124, or inquire by e-mail at sos@international.gc.ca.
Foreign Affairs is also advising Canadians who need assistance in Haiti to travel to the Canadian Embassy in Port-au-Prince on Delmas Road, between Delmas 75 and 71. Canadians can also contact embassy officials by calling 613-996-8885.
Information about the Canadian response to the disaster in Haiti:
Toronto Mayor David Miller's statement
Toronto Mayor David Miller issued the following statement of condolence the day after earthquake:
"On behalf of all Torontonians, I extend deepest condolences and sympathies to Toronto's Haitian community and especially to those with family and friends in the areas devastated by yesterday's earthquakes and today's aftershocks."
"Toronto is proudly home to thousands of Haitian-Canadians and this is one of the many communities that make up Toronto's culturally rich mosaic so when tragedies like this occur, it resonates across our city."
"The thoughts and prayers of all Torontonians go out to all those affected by this terrible natural disaster. I have contacted the honourary Haitian Consul General in Toronto to determine how Torontonians can best assist. As with previous disasters, I have asked Toronto's Office of Emergency Management to determine the best way for the city to respond under the terms of the 2006 International Disaster Relief Policy in close co-operation with other orders of government and relevant partner organizations. We have also advised the Federal government that we stand ready to assist with our HUSAR (Heavy Urban Search and Rescue) team if required."
"In the meantime, I am suggesting anyone wishing to make immediate donations to relief efforts do so through the Red Cross online at www.redcross.ca by calling toll free 1-800-418-1111 or at any Red Cross office."
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