HOW TO HELPIn the aftermath of the Boxing Day Asian disaster, money is desperately needed to help the victims of the tsunami and those still living in the worst-hit areas get back on their feet.
To find out how you can help, read our guide on how to make a real difference to those affected by the crisis. How to donateThe Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) is the umbrella organisation which co-ordinates the UK's National Appeal in response to disasters overseas. Its member organisations include Oxfam, Christian Aid, Cafod and the British Red Cross, all of whom are working hard to help those affected by the tsunami crisis. You can make your donation to the relief fund in any one of the following ways:
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| There are many different ways that you can help |
1. Online
Visit the DEC website and have your credit card handy. Ninety-eight pence of every £1 donated will go directly to those affected by the tsunami disaster. 2. On the telephone
Call the donation line on 0870 60 60 900 and have your credit card handy. Alternatively mobile phone users can text "DONATE" to 83321 to donate £1.50 to the appeal. This amount will be charged to your next itemised bill. 3. In person
Visit any high street bank or post office and ask for a DEC Bank Giro Credit Slip. Alternatively, cheques made payable to the DEC Tsunami Earthquake Appeal may be donated over the counter. 4. Through the post
Send donations in the form of cash/cheque/postal order to DEC Tsunami Earthquake Appeal, PO Box 999, London, EC3A 3AA. If you have taken part in a charity event and wish to donate the proceeds, please make a cheque payable for the total amount and send it to the above address. Please ensure that the envelope is safely secured before posting. For further information please visit the DEC website or call 0207 436 6000 for donation enquiries. Make a difference
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| People all over the world are trying to help with relief aid |
You can also make your contribution to the relief efforts in the following ways: - Volunteering
- Anyone interested in volunteering overseas can find more information on the DEC website.
- Clothing donations
- The DEC does not accept donations of clothing, blankets or other goods because current customs regulations make it difficult and expensive to export them to areas in need. If you wish to donate such items the DEC advises that you visit your local Oxfam shop, where your secondhand goods can be sold to raise money for the appeal. (To find your nearest Oxfam shop please visit their website.)
- Recycling Appeal
- You can also donate your old mobile phone or printer cartridge to the DEC's Tsunami Recycling Appeal.
(Call 08712 50 50 50 or visit the Recycling Appeal website to request a freepost envelope.)
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Inside Out - North West: Monday January 24, 2005
