Fund For Survivors & Families Affected By Attacks Set Up Through Direct Relief International

Direct Relief International
Wednesday, 19 September 2001

SANTA BARBARA, CA (September 19, 2001) - Direct Relief International, a 53 year-old International relief agency, has set up a fund to direct money specifically to the families of last week's terrorist attacks on the World trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon, in Washington, DC. All funds will go directly to disaster victims and affected families and will be distributed by American Jewish World Service, based in New York.

"Many incredible relief organizations, including American Jewish World Service, are working to provide immediate counseling, shelter and support services to victims in New York City and Washington, DC. It is clear, however, that thousands of people and families will confront enormous financial hardship on top of unimaginable personal tragedies," said Direct Relief International President, Thomas Tighe.

"Obviously, assistance and services of all types are needed, but we believe that providing direct financial support ensures that the victims benefit directly from the generosity of people who want desperately to help," said Tighe.

Direct Relief International has worked closely with American Jewish World Service for a number of years in response to international disasters and ongoing health needs in the developing world.

Founded in 1948, Direct Relief International is a non-profit, non-sectarian medical relief organization based in Santa Barbara, California. For over 50 years, Direct Relief has provided medical support with new and used medical equipment, pharmaceuticals, and supplies to over 3,000 charitable health facilities worldwide. In 2000 alone, Direct Relief provided over $67 million worth of vitally needed medical items to 53 countries around the world.

Donations can be made online at www.directrelief.org or by calling (805) 964-4767.

Donations can also be mailed to: Direct Relief International, 27 S. La Patera Lane, Santa Barbara, CA. 93117. Checks should be made payable to: Direct Relief International "NY/DC Relief"

For more information, or to contact Direct Relief International, see their website at: www.directrelief.org