The provincial government says it will donate $500,000 to support relief efforts following a devastating earthquake in Ecuador.
Premier Kathleen Wynne’s office announced the move in a statement released Sunday afternoon.
“Since the tragic earthquake on April 16, our thoughts and prayers have been with the people of Ecuador,” Wynne said in the statement. “It has been devastating to watch the number of dead and wounded rise. But it has also been humbling and inspiring to watch the outpouring of support as dedicated rescue workers have arrived to help and supplies have been flown in from around the world.”
The statement said the money will go to the Canadian Red Cross and will help to provide emergency supplies for families, pre-hospital care, psychosocial support, search and rescue and support for evacuation and telecommunications throughout the country.
The 7.8 magnitude earthquake left at least 659 people dead and some 29,000 people homeless.
“I want to thank the many people here in Ontario who have come together to help, and I would encourage everyone to consider making a personal donation to the Canadian Red Cross,” Wynne said. “On behalf of the Government of Ontario, I offer my sincere condolences to all those who have been affected by this tragedy.”
The federal government has already committed $2 million through a number of humanitarian groups to help provide assistance to people on the ground in Ecuador.
