Adds contribution of $1 million to support its humanitarian efforts
WASHINGTON, May 7 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The American Red Cross
will receive a contribution of $1 million from the U.S. Agency for
International Development (USAID) to assist the people affected by Cyclone
Nargis. This brings the American Red Cross commitment to this international
disaster response to $1.25 million.
"Our hearts go out to the families who have been impacted by this
crisis," said David Meltzer, senior vice president, International Services
of the American Red Cross. "Through this collaboration with USAID, we will
be able to strengthen our relief efforts and provide urgently needed
supplies to those in the affected area."
Since the storm struck, volunteers from the Myanmar Red Cross have been
distributing relief items such as tarps, insecticide-treated mosquito nets,
drinking water and water-purification tablets to survivors. Teams from the
Myanmar Red Cross have also been surveying some of hardest-hit communities
along the Irrawaddy delta, assessing the damage and funneling aid to those
in need.
"USAID is pleased to work with the American Red Cross to provide
assistance to the Burmese people," said USAID Administrator Henrietta H.
Fore. "Many have suffered a great deal during and in the aftermath of the
storm, and we offer our support and assistance in their time of need."
The American Red Cross is working with its partners in the
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to
facilitate the shipment of supplies--such as tarps, hygiene kits and
insecticide-treated bed nets-- from a warehouse in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
An initial shipment, including shelter kits, is expected to arrive in
country tomorrow.
There has been extensive damage to infrastructure and roads, and access
through air and sea ports has been disrupted. As access opens, the American
Red Cross will continue to work with its partners to expedite the relief
supplies and determine additional means of supporting the ongoing relief
efforts.
You can help those affected by countless crises around the world each
year by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross International
Response Fund, which will provide immediate relief and long-term support
through supplies, technical assistance and other support to help those in
need. Call 1-800-RED CROSS or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to
the International Response Fund may be sent to your local American Red
Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross International Response Fund,
P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013. Internet users can make a secure
online contribution by visiting http://www.redcross.org. The American Red Cross
honors donor intent. If you wish to designate your donation to a specific
disaster please do so at the time of your donation.
SOURCE American Red Cross
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Related links:
http://www.redcross.org
CONTACT:
American Red Cross Public Affairs Desk,
+1-202-303-5551
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