OTTAWA (Staff) – Canadian dairy farmers, whose products often are part of Canadian international aid efforts, have decided that this summer, charity begins at home.
This month, dairy farmers across Canada will donate $100,000 worth of product to help the victims of the flooding in Quebec’s Saguenay region.
During July, floods devastated the historic, isolated area north of Quebec City, washing away centuries-old farms, flooding homes and streets, causing hundreds of millions of dollars in damage and taking as many as eight lives.
Federal and provincial governments have promised compensation. Individuals have donated more than $3 million.
In late July, members of the Canadian milk supply management committee decided to join the effort by donating product.
The Canadian Dairy Commission will make the products available to the St. Vincent de Paul Society for distribution.
“Dairy producers hope their contribution will help get people back on their feet and alleviate the tragedy somewhat,” Canadian Dairy Commission chair Gilles PrŽgent said when announcing the decision Aug. 1.
