02 August 2006

New Zealand Red Cross launches Middle East appeal

New Zealand Red Cross has launched an appeal for the Middle East as the conflict and humanitarian crisis continues to worsen.

National President Jocelyn Keith says New Zealand Red Cross will donate an initial $100,000 to the combined international Red Cross and Red Crescent appeals.

“In launching this appeal, we are conscious that many thousands of people are suffering from this conflict. The Red Cross movement is most concerned with alleviating that suffering wherever we can, while at the same time remaining neutral and impartial.

“Through the international movement, the most vulnerable people affected by the conflict will be assisted regardless of race, religion, or borders,” Lady Keith says.

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement have appealed for funds to assist with providing emergency aid such as food parcels, hygiene kits. Other items such as cooking utensils, blankets, mattresses and tents are also being shipped to the region.

Providing essential health services such as running hospitals and ambulance services is also being undertaken by the national societies and International Red Cross, Lady Keith says.

“This initial donation is designed to demonstrate our care and concern for those affected. Even though we are a long way from the conflict, this and further donations from the public can make a measurable difference.”

A New Zealand Red Cross delegate, Dean Manderson, has recently arrived in Lebanon. A logistics delegate, Dean will be responsible for ensuring essential aid convoys are able to reach people desperately suffering from the conflict.

Donations to the Middle East appeal can be made via the New Zealand Red Cross website – www.redcross.org.nz – or by phoning 0900 31 100. A $20 donation will automatically be added to the individuals phone account.

ENDS

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