NEWS INFORMATION FROM |
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THE OFFICE OF MAYOR STEPHEN R. REED |
FOR IMMEDIATE USE |
LOCAL HELP FOR EARTHQUAKE- TSUNAMI DISASTER URGEDMayor Stephen R. Reed today urged area citizens, businesses and foundations to help in the urgently needed relief response to the massive earthquake and tsunami disaster that has struck nine countries in the Indian Ocean yesterday. This is a disaster of epic proportion. The massive waves, caused by the fourth worst earthquake in recorded history, have killed over 22,000 persons, with the death toll expected to go higher. Millions of people are affected. Entire island and fishing communities have been swept into the sea. A catastrophe of this magnitude cries out for a truly worldwide response, especially with a disaster of this severity occurring in the midst of this Holiday Season,” Reed said. The oceanside communities had more tourists present because of the Holidays, which added to the greater numbers of dead and injured. Reed said he has spoken with United Nations and American Red Cross officials today regarding relief efforts. Due to the high costs and difficult logistics of sending donated equipment and supplies to the afflicted areas, these types of donations are not being sought. Instead, contributions of money to the relief groups who are now working in the disaster regions are what are sorely needed now. Donations can be done electronically or by mail to: International Response Fund of the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington D.C. 20013 (or call 1-800-HELP NOW) and the U.S. Fund for UNICEF, P.O. Box 3662, New York City, N.Y. 10164 (or call 1-800-4-UNICEF). Contributions are tax-deductible. Donations should be specifically designated for the Southeast Asia Disaster Response. |
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