We write this information with a heavy heart but call people to get involved. An earthquake hit the area of Yushu on the Tibetan Plateau in China. The quake measured 6.9 according to the US Geological Survey. 90% of the homes were destroyed, killing between 400-1000 (400 confirmed with a an estimated additional 200-600 presumed dead), and leaving hundreds others wounded and homeless in an area where 200 days of the year are below freezing. There are teams of ex-pats forming in Xining and preparing to go in and assess needs, but inevitably the overwhelming need will be money. I know that a lot of people have already given of themselves to the Haiti relief funds, and so forth, but we beg you to not stop giving. Give until it hurts your pocketbook and maybe then you will have but a taste of what 95% of the world's population lives with every day. If you yourself can't give, please, scope out your realm of influence, friends, and family and pass this information along so that others can get involved.
Our non-profit organization, First Asia Development, has done community development work in the town of Yushu for years. We are heading up a relief fund for this devastating earthquake so please, get involved. No donation is too small and it will go to help fund rescue, medical needs, and then overall community rehabilitation once the mess has been sorted through. Simply click on the button that looks like the First Asia Development logo in the bottom left hand side of the screen and make a donation now.
Donations are tax deductible, as we are a non-profit, if you include contact information so we can get a "giving statement" to you.
Thank you in advance for your support, selflessness, and involvement.