TORONTO: Toronto’s Sri Lankan community has established the International Human Relief Canada (IHRC), a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting victims of disasters and addressing rural poverty. The organization was officially unveiled at a recent event in Toronto, led by IHRC President Shiraz Mohideen and attended by Sri Lanka’s High Commissioner to Canada, U. L. Mohammed Jauhar, alongside other notable guests.
The IHRC’s mission is to deliver essential aid to those impacted by conflict, natural disasters, and economic hardship, with a commitment to inclusivity across all demographics. Mohideen described the organization’s vision as one that not only provides immediate assistance but also promotes sustainable change through partnerships with local communities and leaders. The Canada Revenue Agency has granted IHRC charitable status, affirming its credibility and operational framework.
High Commissioner Jauhar praised the initiative, noting its alignment with the humanitarian priorities of Sri Lanka’s government under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. He underscored the importance of transparency and accountability to maintain the organization’s charitable standing, urging IHRC to uphold high ethical standards in its operations.
The organization has already made strides in Sri Lanka, donating medical supplies valued at over 25 million Sri Lankan Rupees to Lady Ridgeway Hospital in Colombo. Additionally, IHRC is actively engaged in projects such as sponsoring orphans, providing food aid to impoverished families, and supporting underprivileged schoolchildren with essential resources.
With its ambitious goals and early successes, IHRC signals a promising new chapter for Sri Lankan Canadians seeking to make a global impact through compassion and collaboration.