TORONTO, Dec. 7, 2015 /CNW/ - BMO Financial Group, CIBC, Royal Bank of Canada, Scotiabank and TD Bank Group will collectively donate $1 million to the Canadian Red Cross to support Syrian refugees arriving in Canada.

Conrad Sauvé, President and CEO of the Canadian Red Cross, noted that more than four million Syrians have been displaced as a result of internal conflict. "The severity of the Syrian refugee crisis is immense," said Mr. Sauvé. "We deeply appreciate this much-needed support from the banks and all Canadians. This will help refugees begin their transition into new communities, and provide essential services and basic needs assistance in the form of clothing, personal care products, food, and family reunification."

In September, Canada's five largest banks donated a total of $1 million to the Canadian Red Cross for essential relief items and first aid to help with the Syrian refugee crisis in Europe.

Customers of all five banks can also make a donation to the Canadian Red Cross at their local branch, effective December 10.

SOURCE CIBC