Mississauga, ON—World Vision has sent vital items such as tents, quilts, water and water containers, and burial cloths to arrive on Tuesday to the earthquake devastated upper north section of Pakistan’s North West Frontier Province (NWFP).  Supplies are coming from existing World Vision supply warehouses located in the region. There are a reported 30,000 dead and over 500,000 injured after a 7.6 earthquake shook Pakistan on October 8th. World Vision Canada has set a goal of  $1 million to be raised for relief efforts. Currently, $100,000 has already been raised.

“We’re grateful for the generous response from Canadians who reached into their pockets to help the quake victims on this Thanksgiving weekend,” says World Vision Canada President Dave Toycen. “People in Pakistan are counting on our help. Children are particularly vulnerable during such disasters. Our staff who were already in Pakistan when the earthquake hit report that water supplies have been destroyed or damaged, and that diseases such as cholera could soon become a threat.”

World Vision will also be shipping relief goods with a UN flight from Brindisi, which will leave later this week.

“Our hearts go out to the many families who are struggling for survival and suffering with grief in the region,” says Toycen.

World Vision’s initial commitment is to raise $1 million towards immediate emergency relief. Canadians wishing to contribute to World Vision’s earthquake response can call 1-800-268-5528 or click here.

As Canada’s largest relief and development agency, World Vision’s passion is to help children and their communities transform their lives by fighting poverty and injustice.  Since 1950, we have been providing hope for children in nearly 100 countries.  We are motivated by God’s love for all people regardless of race, religion or gender.