Buffalo Supports Red Cross Relief Efforts in Haiti

In the wake of the devastating earthquake in Haiti the American Red Cross, Greater Buffalo Chapter has experienced an outpouring of support from the local community. From individual donations to large corporate gifts, the people of Buffalo and Erie County are once again demonstrating their generosity.

"During these very difficult times we are always deeply appreciative of those that step forward to show their support." Said, Nancy Blaschak, Executive Director of the American Red Cross, Greater Buffalo Chapter. "We know that we can always count on the Buffalo community to come to the aid of those who need it most and they have once again risen to the occasion. We are so very grateful."
 
In addition to individual contributions several local companies have come forward to make sizable contributions to the organizations relief efforts in Haiti. These organizations include:

• Wegman's Family Charitable Foundation - $100,000 donation and use of all locations as donation sites
• M&T Bank Foundation - $100,000 donation and commitment to match retiree and employee donations up to an additional $100,000
• First Niagara Bank - Use of all branches as donation sites
• Walden Galleria - Collecting donations at their customer service counter, located on the 2nd floor outside of Macy's

While it is difficult to provide a total amount of dollars raised locally, the American Red Cross is reporting that to date $37 million has been pledged for relief in Haiti with more than half of those donations being made online at www.redcross.org and $8 million raised by texting "HAITI" to 90999.

It is clear that the need in Haiti is great and will require a prolonged recovery effort. We encourage the Buffalo community to continue to show their support by contributing financially to the American Red Cross by visiting www.redcross.org, texting "HAITI" to 9099 to make a $10 donation, or by calling 1-800-REDCROSS