The B.C. government is donating $500,000 to the Red Cross to support its aid efforts in the wake of the deadly earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan March 11.

Public Safety Minister Shirley Bond made the announcement at the Victoria office of the Red Cross today, as rescue efforts continued on behalf of the thousands of people without shelter, food or clothing.

“British Columbia has a history of supporting countries that face catastrophic events and these funds will help provide immediate medical and emergency support for the people of Japan during this terrible tragedy,” Bond said. “We are also encouraging all British Columbians to consider reaching out through aid agencies like the Red Cross to provide further help.”

Kimberley Nemrava, B.C. director of the Canadian Red Cross, said the donation is the latest of a series to assist its relief efforts. The province also contributed after the tsunami that struck Indonesia in 2004, the earthquake in Sichuan, China in 2008 and last year’s earthquake in Haiti.

More information on the Red Cross effort and a link for donations can be found here.