flood victims in Venezuela.

More than 500,000 people were directly affected in the catastrophe and the government in Venezuela has declared a state of emergency for what is the worst natural disaster to hit the country in 200 years.

The Bermuda Red Cross has joined with the British Red Cross and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies in Geneva, Switzerland to launch a cash appeal to the public to support the relief effort in the Federal District of Caracas.

The funds will be used to support the Venezuela Red Cross relief operation and purchase urgently needed relief items such as food, water, sheeting for shelter and medical equipment.

This is a cash appeal only. Clothes will not be accepted.

Those interested in making donations can call the Bermuda Red Cross on 236-8253 or mail to: Bermuda Red Cross, Venezuela Flood Appeal, Charleswood, 9 Berry Hill Road, Paget DV 03.

Deposits can also be made into the following accounts, making note that the funds are for Venezuela: Bank of Bermuda: 701-21565, Bank of N.T.Butterfield: 20-006-060-401365-200 and Gibbons Deposit Company: 35760.

HEALTH HTH