For Immediate Release
January 15, 2010
Contact: Robert Feeley, (208) 422‐3033

Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security Haiti Donation Information

 

The Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security (BHS) continues to monitor and support the worldwide relief effort underway in Haiti. The first 72 hours have focused on saving lives and supporting recovery, and we understand Idahoans are looking for ways to help. BHS thanks those who have risen to the call of those in need and would like to provide information on how Idahoans can safely assist in this tragedy.

If you personally are looking for way to help, the most effective way to support the individuals and families of Haiti is through cash donations. Monetary contributions from individual Idahoans are the best way to immediately support the efforts of relief workers from around the world who are working around‐the‐clock to help save lives in Haiti.

“I have personally received many calls over the last 2 days from Idahoans wanting to help in Haiti,” said Col. Bill Shawver, Director of the Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security. I want to thank Idahoans for their generosity, encourage them to donate to the effort, and make sure their donations are going to legitimate organizations.”

Idahoans can contribute to the cause through several methods including the following:

• The American Red Cross at https://american.redcross.org/supporthaiti
  Individuals can also donate $10 to the Red Cross by charging it to your cell phone bill by texting “HAITI” to “90999.”
• Small organizations and individuals can donate via the Center for International Disaster Information (CIDI) at https://www.cidi.org/
• The White House is also providing donation and relief effort information at https://www.whitehouse.gov/haitiearthquake

If you are seeking information on family members in Haiti, contact:

• U.S. Department of State 888‐407‐4747

 

BHS would like to warn users of potential email scams and search engine campaigns that may circulate regarding the Haitian Earthquake disaster. The scam emails may contain links or attachments which may direct users to phishing or malware‐laden websites. Idahoans should protect themselves by not following unsolicited web links or attachments in email messages and by contacting trusted organizations directly.

 

# # #

Note to reporters: The Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security is the State of Idaho’s emergency management agency. Please note that Idaho BHS is an Idaho-specific agency, and it is not the same thing as the federal Department of Homeland Security. Within the State of Idaho organizational chart, Idaho BHS is aligned under the State of Idaho Military Division.

 

Original Release