August 8, 2020 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada
Canada is deeply saddened by the devastating toll of the tragic explosion in Beirut, Lebanon, on August 4, 2020. The generosity of Canadians when a crisis strikes is always remarkable, and their efforts in times of need make a difference.
The Government of Canada is setting up the Lebanon Matching Fund to help Canadians mobilize resources to assist those affected by the explosion.
The Honourable Karina Gould, Minister of International Development, today announced that the Government of Canada will match every donation made by individual Canadians to the Humanitarian Coalition and its members between August 4 and 24, 2020, up to a maximum of $2 million. The Matching Fund, created in collaboration with the Coalition, is an important mechanism that will help Canada deliver life-saving assistance.
The situation on the ground in Beirut is critical. Concerted humanitarian action is required to meet the immediate needs of people impacted by the blast, including health care, food, shelter and water.
Canada continues to monitor the situation and remains in close contact with humanitarian partners to determine the best way to respond to this crisis.
Global Affairs Canada
www.canadiandays.ca
