United Way International (UWI) today launched
a Relief Fund to aid those impacted by the severe earthquake that stuck
western China early this morning. At least 257 people were killed by the
earthquake, with a minimum of 1,000 people injured. Rescue crews are continuing
to search through hundreds of collapsed homes and buildings.
The earthquake, with a magnitude of
6.8, struck near the city of Jiashi in Bachu County. Officials say that
communication in this mountainous region is considered poor so a full accounting
of the extent of the devastation may take days.
Many of the survivors are remaining outside in near-freezing temperatures as aftershocks continue in the area. One report stated that a school in Kashgar County collapsed and an unknown number of schoolchildren were trapped.
The area affected, one of the poorest in the country, is the home of China's Muslim Uighur minority.
UWI is working with its member organization, the China Charity Federation (CCF), to respond to the crisis. Through its nationwide network of local offices, CCF has reach into all areas of China. UWI and CCF are working to identify local organizations that are providing immediate assistance to those affected. Longer term rebuilding activities are under discussion as well.
Those wishing to make tax-deductible donations to assist victims of the earthquake may do so in a number of ways. 100% of these donations will go to China.
Checks may be made out to "United Way International - China Earthquake 2003" and mailed to: United Way International, 701 North Fairfax Street, Alexandria, VA, 22314, USA.
Confidential and secure credit card donations may be made by calling +1-703-519-0092 or over the Internet.
Call our finance office for stock or bank wire transfer instructions +1 703 519 0092.
Please contact Kyong Sue Aagesen at kyong.aagesen@unitedway.org for more details about this disaster response effort.