Red Cross appeals in New Zealand, Australia, Britain and Ireland

Red Cross nations around the world are raising money for and assisting people affected by the Christchurch earthquake.

New Zealand Red Cross, Australian Red Cross, British Red Cross and Irish Red Cross have each launched national appeals to raise desperately needed funds for the people of Christchurch.

Japanese Red Cross has provided generous financial assistance to the New Zealand Red Cross emergency response and is sending to Christchurch a team of psycho-social workers to support affected Japanese tourists and students and their families. The Japanese psycho-social workers are due to arrive in Christchurch this morning.

American Red Cross is working with New Zealand Red Cross to coordinate donations in the USA.

The New Zealand Red Cross 2011 Earthquake Appeal has to date raised over $52 million, with substantial pledges still to come.

People in New Zealand can donate to the appeal via www.redcross.org.nz or make an automatic $20 donation by ringing 0900 733 27.

People can text a message of hope to 4419 to donate $3.

All funds will be used towards the New Zealand Red Cross response to the February 2011 Christchurch earthquake to assist people and communities affected.

New Zealand Red Cross will not make any deductions for administration or staff salaries.

Details of how to donate in Australia, Britain, Ireland, Japan and the USA can be found at these countries' red cross websites, www.redcross.org.au, www.redcross.org.uk, www.redcross.org.ie, www.jrc.or.jp/english, and www.redcross.org.

The chair of the New Zealand Red Cross Canterbury Earthquake Commission, Sir John Hansen, said the Red Cross family was coming to the aid of the people of Christchurch.

"The people of Christchurch need our support like never before. Red Cross will not let them down," said Sir John.

"Cash is going to be vital in helping people rebuild their homes and lives. It will enable them to buy what they need most and these purchases will help revitalise local economies."

Sir John said appeal funds would be disbursed fairly, transparently and in a timely manner.

"An independent commission will be established to determine the criteria for the allocation and distribution of funds," Sir John said.

"This commission will, in effect, be a reconstitution of the Canterbury Earthquake Commission established after the September earthquake. We will consult with the New Zealand Government in the coming days about representation"

"On behalf of the people of Christchurch, I wish to thank the Red Cross around the world for their support."

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