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Communications aid workers do a bunch of things, but their main purpose is to help make sure people have the information they need when disasters or emergencies hit. Recently, a group of future communications aid workers, myself included, got to attend a training session in Ottawa. 

Doris and her husband live in Pokemouche, New Brunswick. They were without power for 12 days before coming to the Red Cross warming centre in Tracadie-Sheila to find out what could be done. 

When they arrived, Doris and her husband met Red Cross volunteer Michelle Gauthier, who gave them a friendly and comforting welcome.

Many refugees and migrants escaping violence and economic hardship due to conflict and instability at home will find themselves in Greece after crossing the Mediterranean by boat. There are approximately 65,000 refugees in Greece, and around 15,000 of those are in camps on the Greek islands. Canadian Pam Riley is currently working there with the Red Cross, she took a moment to update us about the current situation.

Learn about the Canadian Red Cross' work to help mothers and babies with the Maternal, Newborn and Child Health program in this guest blog by Elaine Ori. 

Aiming to give youth important first aid and injury prevention skills, the Canadian Red Cross has updated its Youth program to give youth greater confidence in caring for themselves and others. Stay Safe! is a new course designed for youth aged 9 to 13 years, in order to provide skills and knowledge to increase their confidence in staying safe on their own.

In the past week, an already volatile situation in Ukraine escalated as heavy artillery and rocket fire hit residential areas in the eastern part of the country, ending a fragile ceasefire.  The fighting has put already vulnerable civilians at heightened risk, with the Red Cross warning of a deteriorating humanitarian situation. 

Every year during the first week of February, the Canadian Government recognizes International Development Week. The week aims to encourage Canadians to learn more about, and contribute actively to, international development. It also showcases the work Canadians are doing to make the world a better place.

Everything the International Red Cross Red Crescent Movement does is guided by our seven fundamental principles; Humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality. We’re taking a closer look at exactly what these principles mean, and how they govern our actions – today we’re looking at fundamental principle #2: Impartiality.