DONATION COORDINATION CENTER ESTABLISHED

CONTACTS:

Janet Clements, VDES
757/896-7257
Bland Franklin, FEMA
804/675-2102

FEMA-1293-DR-VA-PR# 17
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 24,1999

HAMPTON, VA -- A donation center has been established to assist Virginia residents affected by extensive flooding from Hurricane Floyd. The Donations Coordination Center will make sure that the gifts from citizens are directed to where the need is greatest.

"Thousands of Virginians have suffered tremendous losses from the flooding," Governor Jim Gilmore said. "We appreciate the generosity of all those who are contributing to the relief effort. Volunteer efforts, support and donations are vital in helping people recover from Hurricane Floyd and returning their lives to normal."

Donations support volunteer efforts to supplement recovery needs not fully covered by state or federal assistance.

The Donations Coordination Center announced a toll-free number for those wishing to make contributions. Individuals and businesses, both in Virginia and out-of-state, should call 1-877-245-5513.

The contact person will ask donors for their name, company, address and phone number, and the type of goods or services they are giving. Donors will pay for shipping. Each donation will be assigned a control number and a delivery location.

When supplies are not needed immediately, the contact person will note their availability and place them on a resource list. When the items are wanted, the center will contact the donor to arrange shipping.

The most effective assistance, however, is cash, which provides the flexibility to purchase needed items without paying transportation and storage costs. "Whenever possible, donate cash or credit to the Disaster Relief Fund of one of the charitable organizations assisting in the relief effort," said Daniel Grimes, Virginia operations coordinator.

The relief organizations include the American Red Cross, the Central Foodbank of Virginia, Goodwill (goods only), the Salvation Army, and the Church World Service. Individuals also may make donations through the religious organization of their choice.