A devastating 7.1 earthquake hit Haiti this week and the call for assistance has gone out throughout the world. The Tri Cities is known as a caring community and of course, we want to help! There are many members of the Tri Cities community that have ties to Haiti and her people, either through family ties or as individuals or groups that bring assistance through their churches.
Crises officials are indicating that the best way to help is to send money, rather than sending food or clothing. Monetary donations make it more efficient for large service organizations to purchase supplies in bulk and get them to the people in the most expedient manner.
The American Red Cross has several ways in which you can donate:
1. Click on their website (www.redcross.org)
2. Call 1-800-REDCROSS (733-23677)
3. Stop by the Benton Franklin Red Cross Chapter located at 7202 W. Deschutes in Kennewick
4. Donate $10.00 by cell phone – text Haiti to 90999 and the $10 will be added to your next phone bill.
You can also check out the website from the government, www.whitehouse.gov for additional ways to lend assistance. As always, beware of scams that will undoubtedly pop up by giving only to charities that you know for certain are legitimate. Check them out carefully before giving anyone your credit card information or cash.