TORONTO, Aug. 5, 2011 /CNW/ - Scotiabank branches across Canada are now accepting donations to the Red Cross in support of their relief efforts in Africa.

A cycle of severe droughts has led to a humanitarian crisis in the Horn of Africa, which includes Somalia, Kenya, Djibouti, Ethiopia and Uganda. It is estimated that nearly 11 million people have been affected, many fleeing their homes, and are now left with limited access to food, clean water and shelter.

The Red Cross Red Crescent Movement has a strong presence in the Horn of Africa and is actively scaling up operations to meet the urgent needs of affected communities.

Scotiabank Branches will be accepting donations until September 16^th and the Government of Canada has pledged to match individual donations.

About Scotiabank

Scotiabank is committed to supporting the communities in which we live and work, both in Canada and abroad, through our global philanthropic program, 'Bright Future'.  Recognized as a leader internationally and among Canadian corporations for our charitable donations and philanthropic activities, Scotiabank has provided on average approximately $44 million annually to community causes around the world over each of the last five years. Visit us at www.scotiabank.com.