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Syria joint campaign and matching fund end

OTTAWA – Over the last six months, Canadians generously donated $3.7 million to the Humanitarian Coalition. The Government of Canada’s matching fund, which ended on February 29, means another $3.7 million will go to helping Syrians in need.

“With the end of the matching fund, we announce the close of the joint campaign for the Syrian Refugee Crisis. This was the longest such campaign for the Humanitarian Coalition and its members, and created a lot of awareness to one of the worst humanitarian crises the world has ever seen,” said Nicolas Moyer, Executive Director of the Humanitarian Coalition. “We are grateful for the immense contributions of our many supporters and corporate partners who helped us make a difference in the lives of people caught in this conflict.”

While the joint appeal may be closed, the situation remains critical for civilians still in Syria or seeking refuge in neighbouring countries. The crisis is nearing its five-year anniversary and millions of vulnerable people still need urgent help.

Canadians can still make a difference in the lives of Syrians and other vulnerable populations by donating directly to the Humanitarian Coalition’s members: CARE Canada, Oxfam-Canada, Oxfam-Québec, Plan International Canada) and Save the Children.

Until the crisis does end, humanitarian organizations will continue providing assistance, including the basic necessities such as food, water and shelter.

In the face of every growing humanitarian need in and around Syria, we applaud the Government of Canada’s expanding commitments to humanitarian assistance. We also remind the federal government that it has the opportunity and responsibility to continue to make a difference – by increasing its diplomatic engagement, demanding an end to abuses against women and children, pressing for unhindered humanitarian access; building resilience and livelihoods with a focus on the needs of women and girls particularly, and working with other nations to promote a peaceful and lasting resolution to this conflict.

“Peace talks may have begun, but this crisis still demands a global response of epic scale, and will continue to do so long after the guns fall silent. It needs more compassion, more understanding, more support and, ultimately, more political will to find a solution. The only way to solve this humanitarian crisis is through lasting peace,” said Moyer.