Red Cross, Others Mobilizing Local Haiti Relief Efforts

Local organizations and individuals are mobilizing for relief efforts to help those who were affected by a powerful earthquake in Haiti.

A 7.0-magnitude earthquake hit 10 miles from the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince Tuesday evening, and reports say thousands may be dead. It is believed 3 million people were affected by Tuesday's earthquake.

Eighty percent of Haiti's population is Catholic and Pope Benedict has ordered Catholic charities worldwide to help victims of the quake.  The
Archdiocese of Newark has taken up the cause and donations can be made directly to Catholic Relief Services.

The Tri-County chapter of the Red Cross is also currently asking people to give financial donations. Development and Marketing Officer Corinna Krauskopf told Patch that individuals are encouraged to make a contribution through the Red Cross Web site.

"From a local level the easiest way for people to support this crisis is to provide a financial contribution," Krauskopf said.  "It will be the fastest way to provide relief where it is needed the most. Every check that comes in designated for the Haiti Earthquake will go directly into the American Red Cross Haitian Disaster Fund."

Thus far, Krauskopf said, the Red Cross has raised $1 milion.

The Westfield High School French Club has also annouced that its raising funds.

Know of other Westfield groups or houses of worship helping? Add info to the comments section below.