Premier Danielle Smith says the Government of Alberta will provide humanitarian aid to Türkiye and Syria through a matching donation program, March 6, 2023. (Photo: Government of Alberta)

By David Opinko

Alberta to aid Türkiye and Syria through matching donations

Mar 6, 2023 | 3:33 PM

EDMONTON, AB – The Government of Alberta says it will provide up to $1 million in humanitarian aid for two countries impacted by earthquakes.

According to the Government of Alberta, more than 50,000 people have died in Türkiye and Syria following earthquakes on February 6 and 20, 2023, respectively. The government says it extends its condolences to everyone who has been affected.

Premier Danielle Smith adds that the province will match all donations that Albertans and Albertan organizations make to the Canadian Red Cross to a maximum of $1 million.

“The earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria have been devastating for the people of those countries and for their family and friends in Alberta communities,” says Smith. “Our thoughts are with all victims, survivors and their families and loved ones. This is why Alberta’s government is proud to match donations to the Canadian Red Cross to help support relief efforts.”

Canadian Red Cross Vice President of Alberta and the Northwest Territories Pat Quealey says the funds will help the organization provide much-needed humanitarian assistance in the two countries.

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He says the money will be used for shelter, food, water, medical supplies, emotional support, first aid, and other ongoing recovery efforts being provided by Red Cross teams.

“The great generosity of Albertans is much appreciated and will offer valuable support to countless people struggling to rebuild their lives in the wake of devastating earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria,” says Quealey.

According to the 2021 Canadian census, there are 9,520 people of Syrian descent and 6,670 people of Turkish descent living in Alberta.

Donations can be made on the Canadian Red Cross website.

NOTE: In June 2022, the United Nations agreed to change the official spelling of Turkey to Türkiye at the request of the country’s president.

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