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It’s been two years since the escalation of the armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The end of 2023 and beginning of 2024 marked the most intense hostilities since the beginning of the conflict – reminding us that the need for humanitarian support is still vital.

Vice President of International Cooperation and Programs at the Canadian Red Cross, Kelsey Lemon visited regions of Ukraine impacted by the conflict in late 2023. During her visit, she witnessed the effects the conflict continues to have on individuals, households, and infrastructure across Ukraine. 
 

The Canadian Red Cross Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal has received more than $215 million CAD donations, which includes $30 million CAD in matching funds provided by the Government of Canada. So, how are these donations being spent? The Canadian Red Cross continues to respond to the humanitarian needs of people impacted with a focus on winterization, health services, financial assistance, and relief items.

As we embrace the winter months here in Canada, many of us brave the cold and suffer from boredom. We eagerly anticipate the weather to warm up in March, April, or even later in some regions. This can bring on feelings of restlessness, frustration and, for some, utter disappointment. Many refer to this as the “winter blues.” Here at the Canadian Red Cross, we want to help you overcome them!

Haiti has faced numerous challenges, including security issues, drought, and more recently the impact of the 2021 earthquake and social unrest.  

Despite legal advances to address gender inequality and discrimination against women and girls in Haiti, economic limitations and the stigma associated with menstruation still prevent women from exercising their full rights. 

Two well-known Albertans have received the Order of the Red Cross, member level, the organization’s highest award. Dr. Tom Jackson, musician, activist, and philanthropist, and Charles Weaselhead, former Grand Chief and former Chancellor of the University of Lethbridge, received the distinguished honour at separate ceremonies in Calgary and Stand Off in October.

For most people in Gaza, the future is more uncertain than ever before.

After more than 100 days, even volunteers and staff at Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) struggle to know how best to protect their families and make decisions for what to do next.
 

In the heart of the pandemic's isolation, one individual found solace in connecting with others. Dedicated and compassionate volunteer Kian started his journey into the Red Cross Friendly Calls program from a place of empathy and understanding. "I was feeling isolated and frustrated. So, I could imagine what other people were feeling during that time. It felt intuitive to volunteer with the Friendly Calls program."
 

Sexual and gender-based violence, in a nutshell, means harmful acts against a person based on their gender identity. These acts can occur in private or in public, and include things that inflict physical, sexual, or mental harm and suffering. Education is an incredibly important part of confronting and working to prevent sexual and gender-based violence. Below are some suggested readings and trainings to help you understand sexual and gender-based violence and have a better idea of how to be part of the solution.