Photo via World Vision Australia on Twitter

In the morning of April 25, 2015, a devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit outside the capital of Nepal, Kathmandu. This is the worst earthquake to hit the area 80 years. The country has declared a state of emergency. The death toll surpassed 8,000 in the first two weeks and continues to rise.  Thirty of the 75 districts were affected by the quake. Buildings, homes, streets, squares, and ancient temples collapsed. Rescuers continue to search through the rubble hoping to find survivors.

The people of Nepal desperately need your help. Several Canadian registered charities are now actively providing relief with the focus on first aid, search and rescue, and support to first responders in these early hours after the quake. Canada is deploying a DART assessment team to Nepal and will contribute $5 million towards relief efforts.

Your donation can do even more: The Government of Canada will match personal donations made between April 25th and May 25th to charities providing assistance to the people of Nepal. Please give generously today.