Posted on: Wednesday, September 26, 2001

The September 11th attack
Hawai'i donates more than $721,000 to Red Cross

By Robbie Dingeman
Advertiser Staff Writer

In the two weeks since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on the East Coast, Hawai'i residents have contributed more than $721,000 toward American Red Cross disaster relief efforts.

Spokeswoman Jocelyn Collado said the money is going to go "directly to the families that are affected" as part of the Red Cross commitment to help.

"We appreciate all the outpouring for this national disaster, but we also encourage people to support the local chapter," said Collado.

The Hawai'i chapter of the Salvation Army also is continuing to see donations come in, but on a smaller scale.

Daniel de Castro, community relations director for the local chapter, said about $11,000 has been collected.

But de Castro said even more has been sent to the national organization.

"That goes toward helping the rescuers and the rescue mission there," he said.

And de Castro said the Salvation Army also is beginning to see local impact from the attacks as people lose jobs in the "ripple effect."

He said the organization is seeing an increase in requests for rent assistance and other help.

"We have people here who are feeling the pinch of the aftermath," de Castro said.

The September 11th Fund, administered by the Hawai'i Community Foundation, expects to tally the latest donations soon.

As of Friday, a spokeswoman said the fund had brought in $224,038.