MINEOLA, N.Y., Nov. 16, 2007--With thousands feared dead and thousands more displaced from their homes after Cyclone Sidr struck Bangladesh yesterday, the American Red Cross is collecting donations to assist those affected.

 Long Islanders wishing to help can make donations to the American Red Cross International Response Fund, which provides assistance during countless crises around the world each year. Financial gifts made to the fund provide immediate relief and long-term support through needed supplies and technical assistance.

One question that often arises is whether or not the Red Cross can accept in-kind donations like clothes and food, and that answer is no. It is cost prohibitive to collect in-kind gifts because of the added expense incurred to collect, ship and distribute those items. By accepting only financial donations, the Red Cross can provide the items that are most needed. Also, the Red Cross tries to purchase needed items in the region affected, which helps the businesses and economy of that area recover as well.

To make a gift to the American Red Cross International Response Fund, Long Islanders can visit their local Red Cross chapter or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. They can also make a secure, online donation at www.redcross.org. The American Red Cross in Nassau County is located at 195 Willis Avenue in Mineola. The American Red Cross honors donor intent. If you wish to designate your donation to a specific disaster, please do so at the time of your donation.

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You can help those affected by countless crises around the world each year by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross International Response Fund, which will provide immediate relief and long-term support through supplies, technical assistance, and other support to help those in need. Please call 1-800-RED CROSS or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the International Response Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross International Response Fund, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013. Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting www.redcross.org. The American Red Cross honors donor intent. If you wish to designate your donation to a specific disaster please do so at the time of your donation.