Scottish government gives £300,000 to Syrian refugee aid effort
- Published
A Syrian child is rescued from a dinghy in Greece where humanitarian aid efforts are being carried out
Charities providing humanitarian aid to Syrian refugees arriving in Europe are to receive £300,000 from the Scottish government.
The British Red Cross, Mercy Corps, Glasgow the Caring City and Edinburgh Direct Aid will share the money.
International Development Minister Humza Yousaf is due to visit the Greek island of Lesbos to see first hand how the aid effort is working.
Thousands of refugees have arrived in Lesbos from conflict-ridden Syria.
Where is the money going?
£140,000 to the British Red Cross
£140,000 to Mercy Corps
£10,000 to Glasgow the Caring City
£10,000 to Edinburgh Direct Aid
Mr Yousaf said: "The Scottish government and the people of Scotland are committed to helping the most vulnerable people in their hour of need.
"We know we must do more to help those men, women and children coming to Europe seeking protection and refuge.
"I hope that today's announcement of £300,000 will go some way towards helping those who most need our help."