TORONTO, July 11, 2017 /CNW/ - Sun Life Financial
Inc. (TSX: SLF) (NYSE: SLF) announced today that it will donate
C$25,000 to the Canadian Red Cross as
it helps Canadians impacted by the massive wildfires that have
triggered a province-wide state of emergency in British Columbia. The contribution will come
from the Sun Life Financial International Response Fund at the
Canadian Red Cross, which enables support to be deployed rapidly to
areas in need.
Lightning, dry weather and wind throughout British Columbia have caused fires to spread
quickly, with at least 138 wildfires sparked throughout the region
causing many individuals and families to be evacuated from their
communities. Urgent support is needed and donations will help
provide cots, blankets, family reunification and financial
assistance for food, clothing and personal needs.
"Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the wildfires in
British Columbia, in addition to
the volunteers on the ground providing immediate relief," said
Kevin Dougherty, President, Sun Life
Financial Canada. "By working with the Red Cross we hope to help
our impacted communities, families and friends recover from this
tragedy."
The Sun Life Financial International Response Fund, the first
international corporate sponsorship of its kind, was established in
partnership with the Canadian Red Cross in 2005 to help accelerate
emergency response to large-scale international crises.
Administered by the Canadian Red Cross, the Fund has helped provide
immediate relief and resources to natural disasters and crises in
Canada and around the world.
The Canadian Red Cross is supporting the British Columbia government in providing
relief for those affected and Canadians are encouraged to donate to
the British Columbia Fires Appeal.
About Sun Life Financial in the community
At Sun Life Financial, we are committed to building sustainable,
healthier communities for life and we're proud to hold the
Caring Company designation from Imagine Canada. Community
wellness is an important part of our sustainability commitment and
we believe that by actively supporting the communities in which we
live and work, we can help build a positive environment for our
Clients, employees, advisors and shareholders. Our philanthropic
support focuses on two key areas: health, with an emphasis on
diabetes awareness, prevention, care and research initiatives
through our Team Up Against DiabetesTM platform;
and arts and culture, through our award-winning Making the Arts
More Accessible TM program. We also partner with
sports properties in key markets to further our commitment to
healthy and active living. Our employees and advisors take great
pride in volunteering over 40,000 hours each year and contribute to
making life brighter for individuals and families across
Canada. Read more about Sun Life
Financial in the community.
Media Relations Contact:
Alessandra Nigro
Manager, Corporate Communications
T. 416-979-4884
alessandra.nigro@sunlife.com
SOURCE Sun Life Financial Inc.