Islanders continue
aid to refugees

So far, $226,060 of nearly
$10 million raised nationwide
comes from Hawaii residents

Star-Bulletin staff

Of the nearly $10 million contributed to the Red Cross nationwide to help Balkan refugees, $226,060 has come from Hawaii.

Hawaii contributors have been donating to Yugoslavian crisis refugee assistance since March 30.

"Hawaii residents are very concerned about this tragedy and are doing something concrete to help by contributing to the Red Cross," said Lynn Carey, Hawaii chapter community support manager.

"They realize that a financial gift can quickly reach the people needing help, no matter where they are or where they are moved to."

Overall, the Red Cross expects to spend more than $1 million a week for the next several months to meet the emergency needs. The best way to help victims is through financial donations.

Tax-deductible contributions may be made to: American Red Cross, International Response Fund, c/o Hawaii State Chapter, 4155 Diamond Head Road, Honolulu 96816.

For credit card contributions, call 739-8109 or visit www.redcross.org and choose "International Response Fund."

The United Church of Christ is one of several denominations that is accepting donations for relief work by church agencies helping Kosovo refugees.

Local residents may send checks made out to the UCC Board for World Ministries and designated Kosovo Relief to the Hawaii Conference, United Church of Christ, 15 Craigside Place, Honolulu 96817.