Community Supports Haiti Victims
Sonora, CA — The telephone at the Red Cross Office in Sonora has been busy today as numerous residents are inquiring about what they can do to help those affected by the massive Tuesday earthquake in Haiti that killed thousands and destroyed buildings.
“We’ve had a bunch of folks calling and offering assistance, there’s really been quite an interest,” says Carole Mutzner, Mother Lode District Manager.
Mutzner says the best way to help is by sending a monetary donation, as the Red Cross does not accept clothing or supplies. She says monetary donations can easily be shipped to Haiti, and spending it onsite helps rebuild the local economy.
Donations can be mailed to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 81, Sonora, CA 95370. You can also stop by the Red Cross office at 13699 Mono Way on Monday through Friday from 9am-3pm. Mutzner says anyone submitting money specifically for the effort needs to write “Haiti” or “Haiti Relief” on the check.
Mutzner is not sure whether any area residents will eventually be sent to Haiti to help with the relief effort.
Red Cross nationally says it is contributing an initial $1 million from the International Response Fund to support the relief operation. You can also donate directly to the national office. To learn more, click www.redcross.org.
Written by bjhansen@mlode.com.
