OTTAWA - Canada's wedding gift for Prince William and Kate Middleton will be a $50,000 donation to the Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary.
The organization was chosen by the couple to be the Canadian beneficiary of a special charitable fund set up to celebrate their wedding.
In a statement today, Prime Minister Stephen Harper said the government of Canada will offer this gift on behalf of all Canadians.
He said the donation will help the group provide a permanent search-and-rescue program, and to help prevent injuries or loss of life at sea.
Harper said the selection of the cause is symbolic of Canada’s affection for the royal couple.
The prime minister said Canadians are eager to welcome the newlyweds on their coming visit to Canada.
Their June 30-July 8 visit will include Alberta, the Northwest Territories, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, and the Ottawa region.
Canada donates to coast guard auxiliary as wedding gift for William, Kate
