30 December 2004
Dear Friend of UNA-Canada,
How poignant that at this moment of holiday, celebrating time with our
families and loved ones, half a world away a disaster unfolds tragically
destroying lives and livelihoods, families and economies. Many people
have contacted UNA-Canada to seek guidance on how to assist our fellow
citizens in South Asia. As the Canadian people's movement for the UN,
UNA-Canada encourages Canadians to take a number of actions:
1. Your donations make a difference at such times. UNA-Canada works
in collaboration with other Canadian NGO's that are already established
in the countries affected by natural disasters such as tsunamis. These
NGO's need your support. We've included below a list of a number of
our sister organizations actively working in these regions to which
you can donate.
2. Write/telephone/email your Member of Parliament to ask them to ensure
that the horrifying events and aftermath of the tsunamis in South Asia
translate into the increase of Overseas Development Assistance (ODA)
in the government's 2005-2006 fiscal budget. This is the moment to remember
and act on Lester B. Pearson's recommendation that all countries of
the UN apportion 0.7% of GNP to international development.
2005 marks the 60th Anniversary of the United Nations. Now is the time
to remember and support the global institution that works for all the
nations of the world. UNA-Canada will continue to work and engage Canadians
in critical international issues that affect us all. We appreciate and
encourage your continued support.
Warmest holiday wishes for a safe and peaceful holiday and New Year,
and especially to those suffering loss.
Sincerely,
Kathryn White
Executive Director
UNA-Canada
NGO Contacts:
Within the UN family both UNICEF and UNHCR have Canadian offices through
which
donations can be made and relevant receipts issued for tax purposes.
