Government of Canada Announces Assistance to China

Ottawa―The Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, today announced that the Government of Canada will provide $250,000 for humanitarian assistance to the people suffering the effects of the earthquake in the Tibetan region of Qinghai Province, in Western China. "Canada offers its condolences to the families of those affected by the earthquake in Qinghai," said Minister Oda. "Today's contribution will provide life-saving assistance to address the immediate needs of vulnerable populations."

Through the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), Canada's $250,000 contribution will support UNICEF's efforts to help women and children who are at risk due to cold, hunger and displacement following the earthquake. It will help ensure the distribution of relief supplies, the establishment of water points and latrines, and the provision of up to 40,000 hygiene kits containing soap, buckets and other supplies. CIDA's contribution will also support health, education, and water and sanitation initiatives, as well as the provision of tents for temporary schools.

An earthquake of magnitude 6.9 struck a remote Tibetan area of China's north-western province of Qinghai on April 14, 2010. At least 15,000 homes were destroyed and some 100,000 people were left homeless in Qinghai's Yushu county. Eighty percent of primary schools and 50% of secondary schools in the county were severely damaged.

Information:

Jessica Fletcher
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Cooperation
Telephone: 819-953-6238

Media Relations Office
Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)
Telephone: 819-953-6534
Email: media@acdi-cida.gc.ca