Red Cross applauds NZ Govt Support

6 September 2005

Red Cross applauds New Zealand Government support for Hurricane Katrina

New Zealand Red Cross has applauded the New Zealand Government for its support for the thousands of Americans affected by Hurricane Katrina.

New Zealand Red Cross will pass Government funding of $2 million, along with donations from the public which have now reached $28,000, on to the American Red Cross Hurricane 2005 Appeal.

Acting Director General Graham Wrigley says the New Zealand contribution will greatly assist the American Red Cross in providing much-needed relief efforts to those affected, including the provision of food, water, shelter and medication.

“New Zealand Red Cross commends and thanks the Government for its commitment to support the life-saving relief efforts of the American Red Cross following Hurricane Katrina,“ Mr Wrigley says.

“We have been in contact with our American colleagues who are extremely touched by the timely support they have received, from both rich and poor countries alike.

“New Zealand Red Cross values the long-term support it has received from the New Zealand Government, in helping Red Cross to provide aid to vulnerable people all over the world.”

The outpouring of generosity from New Zealanders has been overwhelming, Mr Wrigley says.

“The New Zealand public has been actively seeking out ways in which to help those affected. We had one girl contact us today, wanting to put on a talent quest to help raise funds for Hurricane Katrina.”

New Zealanders can donate by calling 0900 31 100 to make a $20 donation, or by visiting http:// http://www.redcross.org.nz.

American Red Cross Facts and Figures

- The American Red Cross response to Hurricane Katrina is the largest response to a single natural disaster in the 125-year history of the organisation.

- More than 470 Red Cross shelters are open in 12 states, sheltering more than 135,500 evacuees.

- More than 5,000 Red Cross workers and volunteers are working around the clock to provide much-needed aid.

- 249 Emergency Response Vehicles have been dispatched to the affected areas.

- More than 2.6 million meals and more than 3.3 million snacks have been provided to those affected to date. Preparation with other partner organisations is underway to provide nearly 500,000 hot meals each day.

- The American Red Cross and the International Committee of the Red Cross have set up a Family Link Network to reunite family and friends via website www.redcross.org.

ENDS

© Scoop Media