How you can help quake victims

Thursday, September 9, 2010 8:32

The Daily Post and owner APN News & Media are joining the nationwide appeal for funds to help Canterbury earthquake victims with a company contribution of $100,000, and the company will use its newspapers, magazines, websites and radio stations across the country to rally other Kiwis to donate.

Chairman Gavin O'Reilly said APN was adding its weight to the growing number of companies coming to the aid of Christchurch people still reeling from the continuing aftershocks of one of the most devastating natural disasters of a generation.

"Structural damage is measured in the billions of dollars. Thousands of homes have been affected, a large number beyond repair. People everywhere are asking how they can help," Mr O'Reilly said.

APN commenced a national media campaign today encouraging New Zealanders to support the Christchurch Mayoral Earthquake Appeal, which was being administered by the Red Cross.

A joint statement by the CEOs of the publishing and radio divisions of APN, Martin Simons and John McElhinney, said the appeal was designed to mobilise the nation. "It is time for New Zealanders to support a community in need," they said. "The impacts of the earthquake are only just starting to be appreciated. Apart from the destruction of some of the country's iconic buildings, this event will leave thousands of people in temporary accommodation for months."

At present the worst affected people are sheltering with family and neighbours, but as more houses are declared unsafe the pressure on rental accommodation and welfare agencies will become severe.

The APN appeal follows the great leadership being shown by many New Zealand companies including the ANZ Bank, Westpac, BNZ, Fonterra, Fletcher Building, the Warehouse, Westfield shopping centres and Foodstuffs in making substantial donations.

While government funds would help rebuild the infrastructure of Christchurch, and insurance would meet the needs of many, lots of people - many uninsured - would be forced further into poverty by this disaster.

The Daily Post editor Kim Gillespie urged readers to get behind the appeal.

"It's a cliche, sure, but every little bit does help - and will be much appreciated."

Phone 0900 33 200 to make an automatic $20 donation
FreeTXT QUAKE to 555 to make a $5 donation or FreeTXT QUAKE to 333 to donate $3 from any Vodafone mobile
Donate at www.redcross.org.nz
Donate in person at PostShop, Kiwibank, ANZ, National Bank, ASB, TSB or BNZ.
Mail a cheque (made payable to New Zealand Red Cross) to Canterbury Earthquake Appeal, Freepost 232690, PO Box 12-140, Thorndon, Wellington 6144