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ASSEMBLY LEADERS URGE NEW JERSEYANS TO HELP HAITIAN EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS

(TRENTON) — The New Jersey General Assembly leadership on Wednesday urged New Jerseyans to do whatever they can to help the victims of the Haitian earthquake that has left much of the impoverished Caribbean nation in ruins.

Assembly Speaker Sheila Y. Oliver (D-Essex), Assembly Republican Leader Alex DeCroce (R-Morris), Majority Leader Joseph Cryan (D-Union) and Republican Conference Leader Jon Bramnick (R-Union) called on New Jerseyans to donate supplies and other goods needed to help victims of the most powerful earthquake to strike Haiti in more than 200 years.

The Red Cross says up to 3 million people have been affected.

“This is an unspeakable tragedy that not only has hit one of the poorest countries in the world, but one with strong ties to families throughout New Jersey,” Oliver said. “Emergency officials expect to see immediate needs for food, water, temporary shelter, medical services and emotional support, and I ask New Jerseyans to do whatever they can to help ensure this tragedy doesn’t get any worse than it already has become. Our hearts and prayers are with the people of Haiti and their families.”

New Jersey is reportedly home to the 3rd largest Haitian population in the United States.

“The catastrophic earthquake in Haiti has resulted in devastating consequences for an entire country,” DeCroce said. “New Jersey citizens and businesses have always responded generously when natural disasters occur at home and abroad. I urge our residents to seriously consider making a contribution to authorized relief efforts that will help to alleviate the suffering the people of Haiti are experiencing.”

“New Jerseyans are famous for stepping up at big moment and helping others in need, and doing that right now to help the people of Haiti is exactly one of those occasions,” Cryan said. “Whether it be donating to the Red Cross or UNICEF or another relief organization, I simply ask New Jerseyans to take a moment to lend a hand.”

“Our hearts go out to the people of Haiti,” Bramnick said. “Many people in New Jersey have immigrated from Haiti and still have loved ones living there. In the spirit of compassion which exemplifies our state, I hope that people of New Jersey will find it in their hearts to generously support the relief efforts that will assist Haitian people.”

Earthquake Relief options include:

  • The State Department has set up a toll-free number to call for information about family member in Haiti: 1-888-407-4747.
  • The American Red Cross is accepting donations by phone at 1-800-REDCROSS or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish) or online at redcross.org.
  • UNICEF donations for relief for children in Haiti can be made here or at 1-800-4UNICEF.
  • Operation USA is appealing for donations of funds from the public and corporate donations in bulk of health care materials, water purification supplies and food supplements that it will ship to the region. Donate online or at 1-800-678-7255.
  • Partners In Health is accepting donations here.
  • Mercy Corps is accepting donations by calling 1-888-256-1900 or sending checks to Mercy Corps Haiti Earthquake Fund; Dept NR; PO Box 2669; Portland, OR 97208.
  • Direct Relief International is accepting donations online or by calling 805-964-4767.
  • International Medical Corps is accepting donations here.

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