TORONTO – The Steelworkers Humanity Fund (SHF) is donating $35,000 to the Canadian Red Cross Nova Scotia & Atlantic Canada Fires Appeal to provide support in response to the current wildfires.
On the heels of the Alberta wildfires, Eastern Canada is now affected by important fires, fuelled by an early heatwave. For the moment, Nova Scotia has been the most affected with its worst wildfire season on record, with uncontrolled fires raging in areas just outside of Halifax and in the southwestern tip of the province. So far, more than 25,000 people have been displaced.
The SHF is responding to the appeal sent by the Canadian Red Cross with a $35,000 donation that will help deliver urgent aid including shelter, basic needs and emotional support to people who have been impacted by the fires. The Red Cross will also provide additional support as the full extent of needs becomes known. The Government of Canada has confirmed that it will match organizational donations, doubling the impact of the SHF donation.
“Only a month after the wildfires in Alberta, we are witnessing how communities in Nova Scotia – all the way across the country – are faced with the consequences of extreme climate events. The Steelworkers Humanity Fund is always available to support affected communities as the fast-changing weather patterns hit increasingly close to home,” said Marty Warren, President of the Steelworkers Humanity Fund and National Director of the United Steelworkers union (USW).
For anyone wanting to donate, visit the Canadian Red Cross Nova Scotia & Atlantic Canada Fires Appeal website.
June 6 update: the Government of Nova Scotia has confirmed that it will match organizational donations, tripling the impact of the SHF donation.
Founded in 1985, the Steelworkers Humanity Fund is a registered charitable organization that focuses primarily on development projects and emergency aid in developing countries but also supports Canadian communities. USW members contribute to the fund through clauses negotiated into collective agreements. In some cases, employers make matching contributions to the fund.
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