A letter from Australian Red Cross CEO, Robert Tickner:
Dear Readers,
As flood waters recede in Queensland and people begin to return home, the magnitude of the task they face is becoming clear.
As well as major towns such as Bundaberg, Rockhampton, Maryborough and Ipswich, where together thousands of people have been directly affected by the floods, it is now apparent that communities right across south-east Queensland have been devastated, some of them for the second time in as many years.
In the coming weeks and months, these people and communities will face huge challenges as they begin the long process of rebuilding their lives, properties and communities. This will be at a time when many of them have been left emotionally and physically exhausted by the events of the past two weeks.
From our experience, the Australian community has always been very generous with their support for people devastated by disasters, helping them to pick themselves up and start again. Already, many ordinary people have dug into their pockets to help Queensland’s flood affected communities by donating to the Queensland Flood Appeal 2013, for which we are very grateful.
Several major corporations around the country have also shown their generosity and donated to the appeal, which now stands at $6.9 million, including pledges.
But much more is still needed.
Rebuilding from this devastating disaster will take a long time – years rather than months. To ensure that these communities have the support they need for this long journey, we implore people and corporations to keep giving to the appeal.
Donors can be assured that every dollar raised will go to assist individuals, families and communities directly affected by the floods – Red Cross is not deducting any administration fee from the appeal.
The importance of these donations goes beyond money. For people and communities affected by the floods, the support from around Australia gives them hope, and lets them know they are not alone.
Robert Tickner, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Red Cross
How to make a donation to the appeal:
· People can visit www.redcross.org.au to make secure online donations.
· To make a donation via credit card, phone 1800 811 700.
· Donations can be made across the counter at Commonwealth Bank, National Australia Bank, St George Bank, Westpac and the Bank of Queensland.
· In Queensland, donations can be made at all Red Cross branches and offices.
