Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, announced that Canada will provide an additional $15 million in humanitarian assistance to address the urgent needs of civilians in Lebanon. This support will help trusted Canadian and international organizations deliver essential services, including food, water, emergency health care, and protection services.
Minister Hussen also unveiled Canada’s commitment to match donations up to $6 million made to the Canadian Red Cross’ Lebanon Humanitarian Needs Appeal and the Humanitarian Coalition’s Lebanon Emergency Appeal. Individual donations made between September 24 and November 3, 2024, will be matched, up to $3 million per appeal.
This funding is part of the $10 million in humanitarian assistance announced by Minister Hussen on September 28, 2024. Of this, $4 million will be allocated equally between the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the World Food Programme. Canada will also provide 5,000 blankets and 1,000 hygiene kits from its stockpiles to support relief efforts in Lebanon.
Shafqat Ali, MP for Brampton Centre, emphasized the importance of global solidarity: “The situation in Lebanon is dire, and it is crucial that Canada stands with its international partners. This additional funding ensures that we are helping those in immediate need, showing compassion, and making a real difference.”
Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, also highlighted Canada’s continued commitment: “The resilience of the Lebanese people in the face of crisis is remarkable. Canada will continue to provide essential support, and we are grateful to Canadians for their generosity in matching donations, which amplifies the impact of our humanitarian aid.”
Minister Hussen reiterated Canada’s call for a cessation of hostilities and compliance with international humanitarian law, stressing the priority of safeguarding civilians and humanitarian workers.