THE Cowra
Red Cross is just one of hundreds of local branches across the country
collecting donations and goods in response to Australia’s biggest peace-time
national disaster.
Red Cross is
caring for evacuees in 20 centres in bushfire-ravaged Victoria. Hundreds of
volunteers and staff are providing shelter, food and care and comfort to people
who have lost their homes or are unable to return.
The national
enquiry centre is continuing to receive a large volume of calls from people
within Australia and hundreds overseas who are checking on the well-being of
family and friends.
The Red
Cross is accepting tax-deductible donations on 1800 811 700 or [CLICK
HERE]
Donations
can be left at any branch of the Commonwealth, ANZ, Westpac, and NAB banks.
Cheques may be sent to the Victorian Bushfires Appeal 2009, GPO Box 2957,
Melbourne, Victoria, 3001.
A Red Cross
spokesman says the donations will assist individuals, organizations and
communities who meet the criteria set up by an independent panel of community
leaders who will oversee the appeal fund’s operation. Criteria for assistance
will include the extent of the hardship covered and the extent to which
people’s livelihood and infrastructure have been impacted.
Red Cross
will not deduct any funds from this appeal for administration costs. All funds
received will be kept in a trust fund set up by the Victorian Government.
Because of
the huge volume of people who are visiting the Red Cross website and ringing
its phone lines donors may experience some short delays. The spokesman has
asked for patience during this unprecedented response – try again a little
later – because Red Cross appreciates your donation tremendously.
All
donations over $2 are tax deductible.
For further
information contact Cowra Red Cross president Jenny Guihot on 6342 9258 or the
secretary Noelene Melchert on 6342 3276.
REGIONAL
