Media Release
For Immediate Release
May 15, 2008

Markham Council Offers Condolences and Support to China for Earthquake Relief

MARKHAM, ON ~ Markham will be supporting China's relief efforts following the massive earthquake centred in the Wenchuan county of Sichuan Province.

At its meeting on May 13, Markham Council passed a motion offering its deepest condolences to the citizens of China, recognizing the significant loss of life which has taken place and the devastating impact this has on the country.

"A large number of Markham's residents have friends, relatives or colleagues in China and we will do our utmost to help where possible," said Mayor Frank Scarpitti as Council approved a grant of $7500 to help with relief efforts.

The Council resolution also noted Town of Markham staff members will be provided an opportunity to provide financial donations.

Staff are currently exploring an appropriate agency to receive Markham's funds for use in China.

Mayor Frank Scarpitti, Regional Councillor Tony C. Wong and more than 20 local business people were part of a recent trip to China and were in Wuhan, Markham's sister city, and in some of the areas affected by this week's earthquake.

"We will continue to work with our residents and businesses to provide as much help and support as we can to the people of China in the upcoming days, weeks and months," said the Mayor.

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Background:

• Markham Council gave aid to relief efforts for the earthquake in Bam, Iran in 2004.
  
  
• Markham Council gave $7500 in aid for the Pakistan earthquake in October 2005.
  
  
• Markham Council has committed funds to Canadian locations since 2000, including aid for flood relief to Peterborough in 2002 and Badger, Newfoundland in 2003.

Media contacts:

Markham Corporate Communications, 905-479-7754