Laura B made a good point this morning, and because I sometimes tend to be like Ella (I don't try to be self centered, but sometimes I'm just kind of dumb and don't think about things.) I didn't realize... I'm lucky and I have readers around the world, something I always thought was amazing. Here I am, sitting in little ole Columbus Ohio, and someone is reading what I wrote halfway around the world.

I know I have at least one reader who said she was in Chile. I'm sure you all heard of the horrible Earthquake that hit there, and I want to check in to make sure everyone's OK, and if anybody who may live in Chile needs anything (that last part is a stupid thing, I realize, of course they need things, but basically, what can we do to help?)

So Fenhu, PLEASE check in if you're able. And anyone else who may live in Chile, check in as well. And if you are able to give to relief efforts, please do so.

Thanks so much guys.

8 comments:

I just got online at my sister's house, since my house has no internet yet, and I was touched to tears from your post, Laura. It's hard to see your country falling apart around you, but knowing that there are people out there in the world that care and worry make this whole ordeal easier to cope with.

I'm alive and well as are my family and friends. It was a horrible frightening night,and it's been surreal since then. I was too young for the earthquake of 85, and this was worse than my worst nightmare. But thank the Lord all my loved ones are safe and that's all that I care about.

Our country is pretty banged up, so please send all your prayers and/or thoughts our way. That's all I could ask of you. And seeing so many people that have lost their loved ones, I also ask that you take the time each to say to those you love how much they mean to you. I got lucky, I haven't lost anyone, but I can't conceive of having someone die and not having told them how they touched my life.

Love to you all.

 

Fenhu, I couldn't think of your username, I'm so glad that you and your loved ones are ok, My thoughts and prayers will be with your country. And if there is anyway we can help, I don't know, a food drive, some kind of donation fund or something, let us know please.

 

So glad to hear that you and your family and friends are okay. Prayers are headed your way from Texas.

 

Fenhu- So glad to hear you're OK! I can't even imagine what it must be like to watch your country like that, the closest thing I've ever been through like that was September 11th, and I know how terrifying that was, and I didn't even have any relatives in the places that were hit.

Like Laura B said, PLEASE let us know if you hear of anything we can do. I don't have a ton of money, but I'm more than willing to give what I can, and try to gather whatever supplies you guys may need. I am so happy your family is OK, and believe me, you have MANY thoughts and prayers from me, and I'm sure many other readers on the blog.

Stay SAFE, and again, let us know what we can do!

 

Thanks so much, you guys, for your support and prayers. There is an international account you can make donations to. I know things are really hard over there economically, but if you can give even $5.00, it all adds up.

Citibank Account NÂș 9941973331
ABA Code:021000089
Address: 153 east 53 Rd. Street 4th floor. New York, NY 10022.

Once again, thank you for helping our little country out!

 

Hi all! I just wanted to let you guys know of some reputable places to donate for the relief efforts in Chile. This is always such a crucial time and I, like many of you I'm sure, always want to know that my donation is being as effective as possible!

•Save The Children -- Save The Children is sending an emergency assessment team to Chile, and they are asking for contributions to their Children's Emergency Fund to aid these efforts.

•American Red Cross -- The Red Cross has made an initial pledge of $50,000 from their International Response Fund, which you can contribute to to further assist.

•AmeriCares -- Vice President of Emergency Response, Christoph Gorder, says AmeriCares is sending medical supplies and humanitarian aid to Chile. Make a direct contribution to AmeriCares' Chilean earthquake fund.

•Habitat for Humanity -- Habitat for Humanity has a continual presence in Chile, where they've helped construct over 1,300 homes. They will be essential in reconstruction efforts, especially in hard-hit rural areas. Donate to Habitat For Humanity or text CHILE to 25383 to donate $10.

•International Medical Corps -- IMC has a presence in dozens of countries around the globe, providing immediate medical care to those affected by natural disasters. They are currently deploying resources to Chile. Contribute to their emergency response fund. Further updates on IMC's potential presence in Chile coming soon.

•United Way -- Through its affiliate in Chile, Corporacion Sociedad Activa, United Way is planning strategies to provide long-term relief to the region. Donate to the United Way or text CHILE to 864833 to give $10.

Like with the Haiti earthquake, you can text your donations to the following organizations via the Mobile Giving Foundation.

Text CHILE to 90999 to donate $10 to the Red Cross

Text CHILE to 23583 to donate $10 to Habitat for Humanity

Text CHILE to 20222 to donate $10 to World Vision

Text CHILE to 50555 to donate $10 to the Friends of World Food Program

Text CHILE to 52000 to donate $10 to the Salvation Army

Text REBUILD to 50555 to donate $10 to Operation USA

Text 4CHILE to 50555 to donate $10 to Convoy of Hope

Text CHILE to 864833 to give $10 to the United Way

 

Thank you, srob!! You're wonderful! I was trying to find that info, but I couldn't remember what site I saw it in, and the other one I found is in spanish.

 

It was my pleasure Fenhu! I'm so glad your family is safe. Our thoughts are with you all!