In August 2020, an explosion struck Lebanon’s capital of Beirut in a catastrophe that deepened an already existing humanitarian crisis amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The explosion left thousands in need, with tensions rising due to political and financial instability.

Jumping quickly into action, many Air Canada employees banded together to generously raise donations for the Lebanon Humanitarian Needs Appeal, an initiative launched by the Canadian Red Cross, a humanitarian partner of Air Canada.

“Thank you to everyone at Air Canada and the Air Canada Foundation who contributed to assist with Red Cross efforts in Lebanon,” said Greg Sarney, Director of Corporate Partnerships for the Canadian Red Cross. “Your support will go a long way in helping individuals and families affected by this emergency. To date, the Red Cross has been able to help more than 100,000 people affected by the explosion and your generosity will continue to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most after such devastation and loss.”

“It’s heartening to see employees across the company, many of which are Lebanese-Canadians who, without hesitation, stepped up to see how they could help, showing solidarity. The Air Canada Foundation was pleased to match the funds raised that will no doubt help families in need,” said Valerie Durand, Spokesperson at the Air Canada Foundation.

The grassroots initiatives managed to raise more than $17,300 in only three weeks.

All donations will go to support the Lebanese Red Cross and Red Cross Movement partners working in Lebanon to assist the people impacted by the recent explosion, as well as the ongoing humanitarian crises.

Additional donations can be made directly to the Red Cross: https://donate.redcross.ca/page/65325/donate/1?&locale=en-CA&_ga=2.211763989.1282362463.1599222169-904232358.1583472371