• Awarded on: February 10, 1997

The Canadian Red Cross Society
Governor General's Caring Canadian Award

When the Saguenay region experienced flooding in July 1996, the volunteers of the Canadian Red Cross Society immediately went to work providing emergency assistance to the victims, thereby perpetuating a 101-year-old tradition. The thousands of people in the cities and towns affected by the floods were touched by their tireless efforts, their generosity and compassion, and their great efficiency. In addition to procuring emergency services and basic necessities for the evacuees, the volunteers provided indispensable emotional support. The Canadian Red Cross Society also coordinated the distribution of cash donations through its campaign "Le Don de la solidarité", which is still collecting funds. To date, the Society has raised the impressive sum of 29 million dollars thanks to donations from Quebec, from all the other provinces and from abroad. The Red Cross volunteers have once again risen to the occasion and remain worthy examples of the Canadian spirit of compassion and generosity.