The American Red Cross is contributing an initial $1 million from the International Response Fund to support the relief operation in Haiti, and has opened its warehouse in Panama to provide tarps, mosquito nets and cooking sets for approximately 5,000 families.

In addition to Red Cross staff already in Haiti, six disaster management specialists are being deployed to the disaster zone to help coordinate relief efforts. At this time, the American Red Cross is only deploying volunteers specially trained to manage international emergency operations.

There has been an outpouring of support from the public. To help, people can make an unrestricted donation to the International Response Fund at www.redcross.org or by calling 1.800.REDCROSS (1.800.733.2767). The public can also help by texting “Haiti” to 90999 to send a $10 donation to the Red Cross, through an effort backed by the U.S. State Department. Funds will go specifically to support American Red Cross relief efforts in Haiti and the $10 donation will appear on your next mobile phone bill.

Islamic Relief USA, America’s largest Muslim relief organization, has announced that it will immediately fly a $1 million shipment of aid to those impacted by the earthquake in Haiti. That relief aid will be sent in coordination with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Those wishing to donate to Islamic Relief USA’s “Haiti Emergency” appeal may visit www.IslamicReliefUSA.org or call 888.479.4968. Checks payable to “Islamic Relief USA” may be mailed to: Islamic Relief USA, P.O. Box 5640, Buena Park, CA, 90622.

Locally, the Islamic House of Wisdom is collecting money to send to Haiti. Send your donation under “Haiti Relief” to IHW. They will send your help through reliable relief organizations to the victims. Your contributions will be tax deductible. Drop off or mail your contribution to: Islamic House of Wisdom – “Haiti Relief”, 22575 Ann Arbor Trail, Dearborn Heights, MI 48127.