Citizens of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County have already been generous in support of the disaster relief activities surrounding Hurricane Katrina. This is just the beginning of relief and recovery operations.

The best way to assist is to make financial contributions to agencies that can directly serve those affected. Residents can contact 311 to get the following donation information:

American Red Cross
1-800-HELP NOW
Or donate to Red Cross on line at: www.redcrosshelps.org
To donate blood in Charlotte: (704) 378-4641

Salvation Army
(800) 725-2769

Citizens may also want to contact their local places of worship regarding any relief efforts planned by religious and non-profit organizations.