FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JANUARY 20, 2010
CONTACT: GOVERNOR’S PRESS OFFICE
(850) 488-5394
~ Announces commitment of $75,000 from Wells Fargo & Company to assist with unmet needs ~
SANFORD – Governor Charlie Crist today visited with Haiti earthquake survivors and welcomed Florida search and rescue teams returning from Haiti at the Orlando-Sanford International Airport. Along with Adjutant General of the Florida National Guard Major General Douglas Burnett and Florida Department of Children and Families Secretary George Sheldon, the Governor expressed his gratitude to Floridians and all Americans who have contributed their money, time and effort to aiding families impacted by the Haiti earthquake. Governor Crist also today announced a commitment of $75,000 from Wells Fargo & Company to the "Neighbors to the Rescue – Haiti Fund," to help assist with unmet needs of Haitian evacuees coming into Florida.
"Florida's state officials and emergency responders have been an integral part to ensuring survivors of this devastating tragedy have the resources and care needed to get back on their feet and begin moving forward with their lives," said Governor Crist. "As always, Florida is available, prepared and ready to assist in whatever capacity we can, and we will continue to work in partnership with our federal friends to offer hope and a helping hand to the people of Haiti."
Florida Department of Children and Families employees have been providing around-the-clock assistance to U.S. citizens arriving from Haiti since last week, primarily at airports in Sanford, Miami and Homestead. As of Wednesday morning, more than 6,800 people have arrived in Florida and more than 2,700 have received direct assistance from the department. Those services include food and water, mental health counseling and translation services.
"Department employees are providing a welcoming face for those returning to the United States from a tragedy that most of us could never comprehend," said Secretary Sheldon. "In the midst of this catastrophe, we are helping those who need it the most and stand ready to continue for as long as it takes."
Governor Crist reiterated the importance of monetary donations to recovery efforts. The Governor reminded Floridians they can donate to “Neighbors to the Rescue - Haiti Fund” through the Florida Disaster Recovery Fund, or to another relief organization they trust. The "Neighbors to the Rescue" fund is a Florida-based program that works with non profit organizations to assist with long-term recovery and unmet needs for Florida's regional neighbors victimized by disaster.
Floridians and neighbors across the country can contribute to "Neighbors to the Rescue – Haiti Fund" by going to www.FLADisasterRecoveryFund.org - or by calling 1-800-825-3786.
About the Florida Disaster Recovery Fund
The Florida Disaster Recovery Fund, formerly the Florida Hurricane Relief Fund, was initiated during the 2004 hurricane season to assist with the unmet and long-term recovery needs of survivors. The fund is managed by the nonprofit Volunteer Florida Foundation and fueled entirely by private sector donations, with grants made to long-term recovery organizations. For more information about the Volunteer Florida Foundation please visit www.volunteerfloridafoundation.org. |
