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"In Canada, we've seen only a glimpse of the ruin that Hurricane Matthew has unleashed. We are thankful we can do our part to help rebuild." — Elisabeth Ballermann, NUPGE Secretary-Treasurer
Ottawa (13 Oct. 2016) — As with previous disasters, the National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) will be donating $10,000 to Oxfam Canada as part of the relief work in the wake of Hurricane Matthew. The donation comes from the union's Social Justice Solidarity Fund.
Effects from Hurricane Matthew felt from the Caribbean to Canada
"Our members on the East Coast are feeling the damaging effects of Hurricane Matthew. It was only the last leg of the storm, but it wreaked havoc, knocking out electricity, wiping out bridges and roads, and putting cars, homes and communities under water," said Elisabeth Ballermann, NUPGE Secretary-Treasurer. "We are sorry for the loss people are experiencing. If this is what happened in our country, we can only imagine the effect it had on the people of Haiti, and Cuba."
According to Oxfam Canada, "in Haiti over 500 deaths have been reported and water and sanitation is the main concern at this time. Over the coming days and weeks, food will also be a concern as many food stores and crops were ruined. Cholera is a major concern and prevention/preparations are being made."
Make a donation
"We are encouraging our Components to contribute, as they are able, to relief organizations joining in the relief effort. In Canada, we've seen only a glimpse of the ruin that Hurrican Matthew has unleashed. We are thankful we can do our part to help rebuild," said Ballermann.
The public can make donations to the hurricane relief effort by going to Oxfam Canada's website.
NUPGE
The National Union of Public and General Employees (NUPGE) is one of Canada's largest labour organizations with over 360,000 members. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families and to build a stronger Canada by ensuring our common wealth is used for the common good. NUPGE