We are happy to announce that Disaster Aid Canada (DAC) and Soap for Hope (SfH) have been so successful that they have become two non-profits instead of one. The decision was made to align the mission, vision, and purpose of both these programs. 
 
October 1, 2019 - Disaster Aid Canada and Soap for Hope Announcement:
 
We are happy to announce that Disaster Aid Canada (DAC) and Soap for Hope (SfH) have been so successful that they have become two non-profits instead of one. The decision was made to align the mission, vision, and purpose of both these programs. DAC focus is on international disasters while SfH focuses on local community. Disaster Aid Canada and Soap for Hope (to be named Soap for Hope Canada) will continue to collaborate to meet the needs of those we serve.
 
Disaster Aid Canada, a Canadian registered non-profit, has the mission of providing humanitarian aid, shelter, sustainable water systems and hygiene products to people affected by natural and other disasters; or with compelling local needs. Their growth, by working internationally as well as in our community, works in partnership with Disaster Aid International and is a Collaborating Partner of Rotary International.
 
Gerry Beltgens is the new Executive Director of Disaster Aid Canada.  Gerry brings years of experience with Rotary, Disaster Aid Canada and ShelterBox to his role as ED. Prior to 2010 he was the Shelterbox coordinator for the Rotary Club of Tsawwassen. When he moved to Ladysmith in 2010 he joined the Rotary Club of Ladysmith became the champion for Disaster Aid Canada. Gerry organized fundraisers and helped coordinate events. 
The new E.D. was given the opportunity to get his hands dirty when Hurricane Dorian hit the Bahamas on his first day on the job. Working with Anne McIntyre the previous E.D. of DAC he was able to participate in and see first hand the value of the partnerships with Disaster Aid International, DA USA, DA UK and Ireland and Bahamian Rotarians who set up and distributed DAC tents, blanket packs and hygiene products to those affected by the storm.
 
C. Anne McIntyre has become the Executive Director of Soap for Hope. SfH will continue to collaborate with the new Executive Director of DAC on joint projects. The SfH program has had tremendous growth in the 4 years when Anne introduced this program to our community; we went from 5 shelters to over 150 community facilities.  The SfH program will continue to provide hygiene amenities, linens and other reusable items to local shelters, transitional homes, food banks, marginalized seniors, low income schools, and First Nation communities in BC and AB.
 
We are very proud of our growth and how many people we can help. The success of both DAC and SfH has prompted this change. Both organizations will continue to serve those in need and be able to specialize in what they do best. For our donors and supporters, rest assured that we are working hard to stay true to our purpose and provide the best care to those we serve.
 
Gerry A. Beltgens 
Executive Director, Disaster Aid Canada
(250) 661-5996
gbeltgens@gmail.com 
www.disasteraid.ca 
 
C. Anne McIntyre
Executive Director, Soap for Hope
(778) 265-8821
anne@disasteraid.ca
facebook.com/SoapForHope.DAC/
Soap for Hope is a program of Disaster Aid Canada