This release was issued under a previous government.

“The Alberta Government is proud to stand with Albertans who are responding with compassion to the tragic scenes of Syrian refugees attempting to flee the violence of civil war. Our contributions on behalf of all Albertans will help meet the most critical needs of those forced to escape their own homeland and encourage Albertans to donate by matching their donations. As well, resources will be available to settlement agencies in Alberta to ensure that support services are available for refugees arriving in our province."

Rachel Notley, Premier

The Alberta Government will provide $75,000 in immediate funding in support of the Canadian Red Cross response to Europe’s migration and refugee crisis. Additionally, the province will match donations by Albertans to a maximum of $75,000. Alberta’s contribution will aid in the Red Cross’ efforts to provide refugees and migrants with essential relief items such as food, clothing, water, hygiene and medical assistance.

Recognizing that the current crisis demands a longer-term solution, the Alberta Government has further pledged an additional $100,000 to Alberta-based settlement agencies. This funding will help provide support to refugees who settle in Alberta.

As Canada’s response becomes clear, the Government of Alberta will work with its federal, provincial and community partners to address this international humanitarian crisis. Over the longer term, the goal is to ensure supports are in place to help these families successfully settle into life in Alberta.

“The ongoing conflict in Syria and increasing instability in its neighbouring countries has taken a tremendous toll on families who have been forced to flee their homes. The contributions of individual Albertans matched by the Province of Alberta to the Red Cross Refugee Crisis Appeal will help to meet the urgent needs of men, women and children affected by this crisis.”

Jenn McManus, Provincial Director for Alberta, Canadian Red Cross

“We thank the provincial government for this response to the current refugee crisis. We look forward to working with our partners to welcome and settle these Syrian families in our communities.”

Alice Colak, Vice President of Immigration and Settlement Service, Catholic Social Services

Emergency relief funding will be drawn from existing resources and will be administered by the Emergency Disaster Relief Program of Alberta Culture and Tourism. Funding to assist in refugee settlement will be provided through Alberta Jobs, Skills, Training and Labour.

Albertans can contribute online to Red Cross Refugee Crisis Appeal. For more information on the Syrian refugee relief effort, contact the Red Cross at 1-800-418-1111.