University of Virginia Library

Human Appeal

Today, our neighbors in
West Virginia's flood-stricken
Buffalo Valley are looking to
others for help in reestablishing
their lives. This human appeal
from people in need is
reminiscent of Virginia's cries
two and a half years ago when
the generosity of millions of
Americans aided the victims of
Hurricane Camille's floods here
in the Commonwealth.

Now we have the
opportunity of responding
with similar generosity and
compassion. Last week, more
than 3,000 Red Cross Chapters
throughout the United States
launched a voluntary
emergency appeal for relief
funds. Here in this area, our
local Red Cross, with the
support of the other 91
Virginia Chapters, joined that
appeal. It is hoped that a
minimum of $2,108 can be
raised locally.

In addition to the West
Virginia disaster, there are
thousands of families in
Massachusetts and Maine who
are affected by floods recently,
and who are currently being
helped by Red Cross.

At the request of the Office
of Emergency Preparedness,
Red Cross has discouraged
donations of food, clothing
and materials. We want to
emphasize that adequate food
supplies and clothing are
already on hand and are not
needed; however, additional
funds are needed critically.
Preliminary estimates indicate
that the combined cost of Red
Cross relief for the three
disasters may reach
$2,000,000. Unfortunately,
the many disasters occurring
this fiscal year have depleted
the American National Red
Cross disaster budget;
therefore, this voluntary appeal
is urgent.

Those of us who are spared
this catastrophe can help our
West Virginia neighbors by
contributing funds.
Contributions may be sent
through our local Red Cross
Chapter. They should be
clearly marked; "FOR WEST
VIRGINIA FLOOD RELIEF"
and made out to Red Cross and
mailed to 206 East Jefferson
St., Charlottesville, Virginia,
22901.

Thank you for your
continued interest and support
of our Chapter.