War, famine and a devastating drought in their homeland prompted members of the Somali Community Association of Windsor to pack their King Street community centre for a fundraising dinner Saturday.
Nearly $74,000 was raised, including a single $30,000 donation from an individual who wishes to remain anonymous.
"The turnout is beyond all of our expectations," said Hassan Awed, one of the organizers for the event. "It is more than what we were expecting. It's an amazing turnout."
Last month, the United Nations declared an official famine in Somalia, brought on by drought, a lack of a functioning government, and decades of warfare and piracy. The crisis mostly affects those living in the southern regions, but the food crisis has affected other countries in and around the Horn of Africa.
"Many of us still have friends and family members in Somalia, so this crisis is something that affects us in Canada as well," said Awed, a social worker who came to Canada in 1989. "Many of us truly believe that if Somalia was not filled with war and had a functioning government, this situation would not have turned into the disaster it is."
More than 200 people paid $20 to indulge in a buffet meal, provided by Windsor's Jubba Restaurant and Somali Restaurant. Educational films on the current crisis were also shown. They were sometimes difficult to watch, said Awed.
"Somalis see themselves as one big family," he said. "It is very difficult not to do anything."
Awed says that although no future fundraisers are planned, the group might organize a second event in the next few weeks if the situation does not improve. So far, the Canadian government has pledged $72 million to relief efforts in the Horn of Africa. In addition, every dollar donated to charities will be matched by the government.
Donations to Human Concern International, a relief agency currently providing food, water and medical supplies to Somalis, are still being accepted by the Somali Community Association of Windsor. Donations can also be dropped off at the group's main office at 3735 King St. in Windsor, or call 519-254-2300 for more information.
The Catholic Diocese of London is also accepting donations to aid victims in the drought-and famine-ravaged region. Those wishing to make a contribution may do so at any time, by dropping off money at more than 120 Catholic churches in Southwestern Ontario.
People are asked to write Horn of Africa Drought on their cheques, which will be sent to the Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace.
Source: The Windsor Star
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