The American Red Cross Commits $10 Million to Assist China Earthquake Survivors.

The American Red Cross is prepared to provide $10 million to support relief efforts following the devastating 7.9 magnitude earthquake in China's Sichuan province. This contribution will assist the Red Cross Society of China, whose employees and volunteers have been helping survivors since the earthquake struck on Monday, May 12. According to the latest reports, tens of thousands of people have been killed, and many more are missing or trapped by debris (see also American Red Cross).

"Already we have seen a great outpouring of concern and support from across the U.S. for those whose lives were shattered by this disaster," said David Meltzer, senior vice president, International Services for the American Red Cross. "We are working closely with our international partners, including the Chinese Red Cross, to provide vital assistance to those in need."

The $10 million will go toward the preliminary appeal by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, on May 15, calling for a total of $19.3 million. The appeal will support the relief operations through the purchase and distribution of supplies, coordination of relief efforts, and deployment of staff to the affected area. Together, the appeal aims to assist approximately 100,000 people over the next 12 months.

The Chinese Red Cross is a very strong organization with extensive experience responding to disasters in China. Hundreds of volunteers, including trained medical staff and relief experts, are currently helping survivors. They are distributing aid and setting up tents for people who have lost their homes. The American Red Cross has long history of working in partnership with the Red Cross Society of China, including this year's severe winter storms.

The American Red Cross will continue to weigh additional support options, which may include additional financial support, relief supplies or expertise. Given the scope of the disaster, the full picture of the disaster may take several more days to become clear.

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 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.

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This article was prepared by Health & Medicine Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2008, Health & Medicine Week via NewsRx.com.