Local chapter of Red Cross ready to help
By Judi Brinegar
Staff Writer, The Courier-Tribune
ASHEBORO - The Mid-Carolinas Chapter in Asheboro will respond if needed
in relief efforts for victims of the earthquake and killer waves that struck
much of Asia the day after Christmas, but right now they are asking for
donations.
Eleven nations have felt the effects of the 9.0 earthquake that left
tens of thousands of people dead and many more homeless.
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent societies in south Asia
have begun to mobilize staff and volunteers to affected areas to assist
with the immediate needs. Emergency assessment and first-aid teams have
already reached some of the affected areas.
"If we have someone trained, someone who meets all of the criteria
needed to respond, that person could go," Kim Mroski, director of the
local chapter, said Tuesday. "Right now, the Red Cross as a whole is
ready to respond if needed."
If the general community would like to help, the best way is do that
is to donate money.
"Everything is appreciated," Mroski added, "but right
now, donations are the best way to go. Financial contributions allow us
to support the greatest needs in the most efficient manner."
Red Cross officials said that the cash can be used to purchase items,
such as tents and blankets in the region, and eliminate the added costs
involved in transporting goods. Cash also allows the purchase of culturally
appropriate items in the country.
If you would like to help those affected by this crisis, you may make
a donation to the American Red Cross International Response Fund. Call 1-800-HELP
NOW or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish).
Contributions to the International Response Fund may be sent to or dropped
off at the local American Red Cross chapter, 117 S. Fayetteville St., Asheboro,
or to the American Red Cross International Response Fund, P.O. Box 37243,
Washington, D.C. 20013.
Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting <www.redcross.org>.
For more information, call the local chapter at (336) 629-2399.
Copyright 2002, Stephens Media Group
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