IDRF (International Development and Relief Foundation)

At IDRF, our hearts are with the families affected by the devastating wildfires in Jasper, Alberta. We are actively collaborating with local partners on the ground to provide crucial support to those in need. This includes distributing Family Emergency Kits containing essential supplies like water filtration units, hygiene items, oral rehydration sachets, and female hygiene products, ensuring immediate access to vital necessities during this challenging time. In addition to these efforts, IDRF is committed to supplying food to support individuals and families impacted by the fires. Understanding the urgent need for water access in areas inaccessible to conventional fire trucks, we have deployed water skid units through local fire departments. These units, mounted on pickup trucks with water pumps, facilitate access to nearby water sources and assist in reaching difficult terrain where traditional firefighting equipment may struggle. As Canadians unite to support each other in this crisis, IDRF urges community members to join us in providing relief to those affected. Your support can significantly aid families in rebuilding and recovering from this disaster. Together, we can ensure that no one faces this challenging time alone. For more information on how you can contribute, please visit https://bit.ly/3Sp2gSA or contact us directly at 416 497 0818.

Our hearts are aching in the face of the devastating wildfires ravaging Alberta. Our thoughts are with the communities who have been evacuated, leaving their homes behind, and with the courageous first responders who are tirelessly battling the flames. The severity of these wildfires is a stark reminder of the profound impact of the climate crisis. The increasing frequency and intensity of such disasters are devastating communities and altering lives in ways we are only beginning to understand. In Canada, and beyond, the urgency to address climate change has never been clearer.

This past weekend was packed with amazing events! Swipe through to see the highlights from our activities in Toronto, Montreal, and Calgary, all dedicated to supporting great causes. Whether you are a volunteer, participant, or supporter, we are truly grateful for your efforts in making an impact in the community. Haven’t attended one of our events yet? Stay connected and visit idrf.ca/events for the latest updates!

We cannot forget about Gaza. Every 15 minutes, a child's life is brutally cut short. Every hour, 11 Palestinians are killed. Every single day, the people of Gaza face horrors beyond comprehension, a nightmare no one should have to live through. The death toll has tragically surpassed 38,000, with countless more buried under the rubble, unaccounted for. The devastation is beyond measure — families torn apart, lives irreparably shattered. As the news cycle moves on, we must keep the people of Gaza in our hearts. We must stand up, speak out, and provide relief to those who suffer. They deserve safety, security, and most importantly, an immediate and permanent ceasefire.

Remembering Roy McMurtry Roland (Roy) McMurtry, former Ontario Attorney General and Chief Justice, was a visionary leader who advocated for the rights of marginalized communities and played a pivotal role in shaping the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. His legacy of fairness and dedication to justice continues to inspire us. As a Patron of IDRF’s Licensed 2 Learn (L2L) program, Roy’s dedication to justice and equality profoundly influenced our mission and values. With his passing, L2L will continue to uphold the principles he led with, ensuring that his vision for justice and equality remains at the forefront of our work. His leadership and passion for justice will guide us as we continue to strive to make a positive impact in our community.

Our COO Nabil Ali shares insights into our Mental Health Program in Guyana. To address mental health challenges in Guyana, IDRF has been implementing the "Safeguarding the Human Dignity and Rights of Populations at Risk for Ill-Mental Health in Vulnerable Communities across Guyana" (SPAR Project) since 2022. Supported by Global Affairs Canada | Affaires mondiales Canada, this program enhances mental health services in communities and schools. At the Project Showcase on June 17, 2024 in Georgetown, IDRF highlighted the SPAR Project's achievements to-date and the partnerships that made them possible, including The High Commission of Guyana, Ministry of Health Guyana, and The Ministry of Education Guyana. His Excellency Mark Berman, pledged Canada’s continued commitment to supporting Guyana's mental health efforts. Additionally, the feature address from His Excellency Dr. Frank Anthony highlighted the project's success, including training over 700 gatekeepers in suicide prevention. Finally, the event launched the innovative Mental Health Portal and "Lets Talk Guyana" National Advocacy Campaign. IDRF aims to continue breaking the stigma and building healthier communities. For more info, please visit https://lnkd.in/geKnX93y

Our team continues to work day and night for the children of Gaza. Under siege, with schools and education systems devastated, children are deprived of the simple joys of childhood, forced to grow up in absolute chaos. Our goal is to bring them hope for a better future, and to support them throughout this crisis. Visit our website to help us continue our work: https://lnkd.in/evrqYaxR

Last month, your generous Qurbani empowered thousands of families across the globe. From Palestine to Sudan, and right here in Canada, you helped share the joy of Eid, bringing hope to those in need. Thank you for your generosity and compassion — it will not be forgotten.

Are you interested in joining the IDRF (International Development and Relief Foundation) team? We are looking for an executive assistant for our CEO Mahmood Qasim! This is a 10-month mat leave position working directly for one of the respected leaders in the charitable sectors in Canada. If you are interested, please apply! If you know someone who would be an asset to the IDRF and is passionate about uplifting communities in Canada and across the globe, please share! We are excited to hear from potential candidates.

A big thank you to IDRF (International Development and Relief Foundation) for their support of our Hurricane Beryl Response. Hurricane Beryl has been devastating islands across the Caribbean. Yesterday Air Canada flew 720 Family Emergency Kits and 720 Emergency Food Kits to Jamaica to support affected communities. The food kits were supported and packed by IDRF volunteers to help feed families in need. Please donate to our Hurricane Beryl Response Fund to help us deliver urgently needed supplies: www.globalmedic.ca/donate