American Red Cross Launches $130 Million Campaign for Hurricane Katrina Response
News Release: August 31, 2005
Contact: John R. Hughes, Executive Director (610) 865-4400, ext. 236

In the wake of the devastation and destruction ravaged by Hurricane Katrina the American Red Cross is initiating the largest single disaster response in the organizations 125 year history with an initial target of $130 million. Officials believe that this storm will be more costly than Hurricane Andrew, the previous record-breaking hurricane of 1992. Early estimates indicate that this response could cost as much or more than the sum of the four combined hurricanes during last year's hurricane season, which cost approximately $130 million. The peak of the Atlantic hurricane season is still to come.

"I want to stress that the initial $130 million target is only an estimate and may change, depending on updated damage assessment figures and the amount of a ssistance needed by the families affected by this event," stated American Red Cross Executive Director, John Hughes. "The Red Cross is committed for the long haul. We will meet the immediate emergency needs of disaster victims in the weeks and months ahead. We anticipate a sustained disaster relief effort, unlike any other in our history, lasting many months." Already, the Red Cross has provided a safe haven for nearly 70,000 evacuees in more than 230 Red Cross shelters - from the panhandle of Florida, across Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Georgia, and Texas.

The needs will be great and for those wanting to help the best way is by donating to the Disaster Relief Fund. Donations can be made on line at www.redcross.org, by calling 1-800-HELP NOW or by mail at the local chapter or American Red Cross, P. O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.

The American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley serves more than 660,000 residents of Carbon, Lehigh and Northampton counties. Last year the Red Cross provided health and safety education training; Lifeline, a personal response service for seniors; and emergency relief to more than 20,000 Greater Lehigh Valley residents. For more information about the American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley or volunteer opportunities, call (610) 865-4400 or visit www.redcrosslv.org.