AURORA, Ontario — Stock Transportation is conducting a fundraising drive to benefit those affected by drought and famine in Somalia.

The school bus contractor has raised $3,000 to date from employee contributions and a regional office donation. Donations will be collected until Sept. 16; the funds will be matched by the Canadian government and given to the Canadian Red Cross to be distributed in Somalia.

Lul Mohammad, a Stock Transportation driver for more than 10 years, raised awareness about the situation in Somalia among her fellow drivers and asked if the company could help. Mohammad left Somalia 23 years ago to Canada to seek freedom and safety for her family.

"We want to live our company value of community and help make the world a safer place for children and families," said Kim Worster, vice president of Canadian operations.  "We are asking for the support of our people to help those in need, and are proud to be a part of a great cause."

Through the efforts of Stock's Toronto locations, the fundraising drive was successfully launched last week and continues throughout the company.