An organisation that has helped Bermuda residents directly sponsor 48 needy children in Haiti is expanding its relief appeal.

World Vision has helped Haitian orphans since 1959. It's now asking for more donors to help rebuild communities and sponsor children.

Charity representative Ruth Madeiros said efforts are being made to develop two child-friendly spaces the San Jose Recovery Center, and the Good Samaritan Hospital in the Haiti-Dominican Republic border town of Jimani.

"Child-friendly spaces are places where children displaced and/or traumatised by the earthquake can seek refuge," she said. "In a place as needy and impoverished as Haiti, children are vulnerable. Many are traumatised from the destruction of the earthquake which caused them to lose their family members, schools and homes. These children are at risk for exploitation and these spaces provide them with a safe and secure place to go."

Through 20 area development programmes in Haiti, World Vision donors from around the world are helping over 300,000 children, 52,000 of which are sponsored directly by individuals.

• Persons wishing to donate may deposit into Butterfield Bank account 2000-6060-108185-100 (ref. Haiti Earthquake Relief), or HSBC Bank of Bermuda account 010-886265-001. Cheques can be sent to World Vision, PO Box HM 44, Hamilton HM AX, Attn: Haiti Earthquake Relief.

Credit/debit card donations may be placed on 1-888-56-CHILD. For more information contact Mrs. Madeiros: rmadeiro@worldvision.org.