For immediate release
Psychologists’ Association of Alberta (PAA) Partners with Canadian Red Cross in Alberta for Disaster Recovery
Edmonton, August 27, 2004 – The Canadian Red Cross Society in Central & Northern Alberta is pleased to announce a new partnership with the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta. The agreement, a first of its kind for the Red Cross in Alberta, will establish a province-wide network of psychologists willing to volunteer their services to victims of disaster.
Red Cross provides basic necessities such as food, clothing and shelter to help people recover from unexpected disasters such as floods, fire and tornados. However, victims of disaster often experience great distress and may need additional assistance in getting their life back.
Under the new partnership, the Psychologists’ Association will contribute professional expertise and resources to help victims through difficult situations. “This will provide our members the opportunity to volunteer their services to help victims of disaster,” said Dr. Sonia Masciuch, Disaster Response Network Coordinator with the Psychologists’ Association of Alberta.
The Alberta partnership is based on a similar model in Ontario, the only other province where the Red Cross draws upon a network of psychologists who volunteer their services. “Red Cross is fulfilling its role as a humanitarian organization whose goal is to help the most vulnerable, “ said Tony Hudson, Regional Director, Central & Northern Alberta Red Cross. “This partnership will allow us to offer more services to people in need.”
The Canadian Red Cross Society is a not-for-profit humanitarian organization that assists individuals and families who are facing threats to their survival, safety, security and dignity. In 2003, Central & Northern Alberta Red Cross responded to 146 disasters and provided for the basic needs of more than 600 adults and 150 children.
For more information:
Ginette Benoit
Communications Coordinator
Red Cross, Central & Northern Alberta Region
Phone: (780)702-4159
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