Premier Darrell Dexter has announced the province is contributing $100,000 to the Canadian Red Cross to assist with the humanitarian mission and reconstruction efforts in Pakistan. “The situation in Pakistan is desperate. Millions of people have been forced to flee their homes and families and are in need of shelter, food and clean water. This money will help provide the help they need,” said Premier Dexter. Heavy monsoon rains in Pakistan led to massive flooding in late July. The devastation is now compounded by health risks from water-borne diseases, food shortages, collapsed bridges and roads, and the lack of adequate shelter. “I am deeply saddened by the tragedy and loss in Pakistan. Nova Scotia, a province renowned for the generosity and kindness of its people, is part of the international community reaching out to help those struck by such a deadly natural disaster,” said Premier Dexter. The United Nations estimates that 14 million people in Pakistan have been affected by the flooding, with more than six million in need of emergency assistance. Nova Scotians, businesses and unions are also encouraged to do their part in supporting relief organizations helping the stricken country. The federal government will match individual donations by Canadians, dollar for dollar, made between August and Sept. 12 to registered Canadian charities for assistance to the Pakistan relief efforts. For more information on donating to relief efforts, contact the Canadian Red Cross at www.redcross.ca or the Canadian International Development Agency at www.cida.ca .