The American Red Cross raised its initial pledge of support for Chile’s recovery to $500,000 and is now accepting monetary donations specifically for the response in Chile, following an international request for assistance from the Chilean Red Cross.

The American Red Cross is also running two other simultaneous campaigns. Donations are still being accepted to help with the long-term recovery efforts underway in Haiti, and during March, which is Red Cross month in the United States, the Red Cross also is encouraging our communities to support the local lifesaving programs of the American Red Cross that teach CPR and first aid, or to support the efforts to assist thousands of families who each year lose everything in a fire or other national disaster.

How to Help:

Donations for Chile or Haiti can be made online at www.redcross.org or at www.cruzrojaamericana.org, by phone at 1-800-REDCROSS or 1-800-257-7575 in Spanish.

Contributions also are being accepted by via text message. Texting “CHILE” to 90999 will make a $10 donation to help with efforts in that country. Likewise, texting “HAITI” to 90999 will designate your $10 donation for relief efforts in Haiti.

If you prefer to mail a check, please send it to The American Red Cross, PO Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013. The American Red Cross honors donor intent. If you wish to designate your donation to a specific disaster, please do so at the time of your donation. You may also choose to designate your donation to where the need is greatest.

To make a contribution in support of the American Red Cross programs in South Florida, please call us at 305-644-1200 or 954-797-3800, or visit us online at www.southfloridaredcross.org or www.tucruzroja.org.

The American Red Cross does not accept donations of food, clothing or other goods.

Restoring Family Links

The International Committee of the Red Cross has made its Restoring Family Links web site available for people affected by Chile's earthquake. To check on the status of loved ones who have registered with the Red Cross, click here.

Individuals trying to locate US citizens living or traveling in Chile should contact the US Department of State, Office of Overseas Citizens Services at 1-888-407-4747.