American Red Cross Seeks Contributions for Earthquake Relief

By LookOut Staff

As rescue efforts give way to relief assistance for the survivors of a devastating 7.9 earthquake that ravaged parts of India last Friday, the American Red Cross has put out a plea for donations to bolster its efforts in the region.

Immediately following the quake, which leveled entire neighborhoods, the American Red Cross mobilized an initial comprehensive relief package to assist survivors that included $25,000 to the Indian Red Cross to help jump start relief operations and $40,000 for the procurement of 200 rolls of plastic sheeting and 5,000 blankets.

Along with an International Response Team member already deployed in New Delhi when the quake struck, five more team members, who are experts on international disaster response in India, were sent to the devastated areas.

The Red Cross has set up a massive relief hospital with 310 beds and the capacity to treat 20,000 walk-in patients in Bhuj, one of the hardest hit areas in Gujarat State. The estimated death toll continues to climb, with the latest projection at least 20,000.

The Santa Monica chapter of the American Red Cross has begun to receive a trickle of donations for India quake relief efforts, local officials said. But they added that more is needed.

"We are starting to see the checks coming in specifically for the Indian Earthquake," said Santa Monica Red Cross spokeswoman Daisy Lalwani.

The Earthquake in India came on the heels of a massive earthquake in El Salvador on Jan. 13. In the days following the quake in El Salvador, the American Red Cross announced a $1 million humanitarian effort for the Central American country.

Locally the organization raised $5,000 for the El Salvador quake and hopes to repeat the efforts for India.

"The American Red Cross is already in full swing in providing relief to El Salvador," said Mayor Pro Tem Richard Bloom, who also serves on Red Cross of Santa Monica's board of directors. "This one is a double blow in one month. We want people to reach more deeply into their pockets. With dual disasters in countries that are economically depressed it's important."

If you are interested in helping, contributions can be made to the American Red Cross International Response Fund by calling (310) 394-3773, ext. 104 or 1-800-HELP-NOW. Spanish speakers can call 1-800-257-7575.

Donations also can be mailed to the American Red Cross of Santa Monica, at P.O. Box 1008, Santa Monica, CA 90406-1008 or to P.O. Box 37243, Washington DC 20013.

Donations can be earmarked for the India earthquake relief fund or the Central America earthquake relief fund. Donation canisters also are set up throughout the City.