"The Government of Canada will contribute an equivalent amount to the Pakistan Floods Relief Fund for every eligible donation by individual Canadians to Canadian registered charities between August 2 and September 12," announced International Cooperation Minister Bev Oda. "This fund will provide effective and accountable financial support to experienced Canadian and international humanitarian and development partner organizations working on humanitarian assistance, early recovery, and reconstruction efforts in the affected areas."

The floods in Pakistan have affected 20 million and left more than 4 million people homeless. It has now spread to parts of Punjab and has threatened the Sindh province. All wells have been contaminated and water-borne diseases are spreading as the region is midway through monsoon season with more rain projected in the forecast.

"The flooding situation in Pakistan continues to worsen as the devastation left by the floods is now compounded by health risks, food shortages, the destruction of infrastructure, and the displacement of people." says Laurie Cook, C.E.O. of World Relief Canada, "We are now are facing a major catastrophe and are responding."

World Relief Canada, in partnership with the Canadian Foodgrains Bank partners, is distributing 280 metric tonnes of food rations (1,000 food kits) to affected families in Nasirabat, a community in the Balochistan province of Pakistan. The initial goal is to provide one month of rations for 1,000 families consisting of flour, rice, cooking oil, pulses, sugar, salt and tea.

We would ask for your prayerful financial support for the families affected by this major flooding crisis in Pakistan. Please donate online or call World Relief Canada toll-free at 1-800-567-8190. All gifts will be matched by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA).