More than 3,000 people have been sheltered by the Red Cross in the last week, and 800,000 meals have been distributed. The Red Cross continues taking Family Well Being Inquiries from family members still searching for loved ones in the affected areas. More than 4,000 Family Well Being Inquiries have been received.

Recent events illustrate the importance of families nationwide taking simple steps toward disaster preparedness. The Red Cross recommends assembling a DISASTER SUPPLIES KIT of things that would be needed during an emergency situation.

Essential Items for a Disaster Supplies Kit:

a supply of water (one gallon of water per person per day - store a 3 day supply)

a supply of non-perishable packaged or canned food and a non-electric can opener

a change of clothing and sturdy shoes

blankets or sleeping bags

first-aid kit and prescription medications

an extra pair of glasses

a battery powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries

credit cards and cash

an extra set of car keys

a list of family physicians

special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members

For a complete Emergency Preparedness Checklist, please call the American Red Cross Southern Arizona Chapter at 520-318-6740

The American Red Cross provides disaster assistance for people in need without cost to them made possible by voluntary donations of time and money form the American people.

To help provide support for this disaster and emerging needs resulting from this tragedy, contributions can be made to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund by calling the American Red Cross at 520-318-6740.

Internet users can also make credit card contributions by visiting DoTucson.com. Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may also be sent to the American Red Cross Southern Arizona Chapter at P. O. Box 3103, Tucson, AZ 85702-3103.

World Care

POB 64001

Tucson, AZ 85728

Here is the current "New York Wish List":

For Personal sized Hygiene Items: combs, soap, nail clippers, shampoo, razors, hand towels, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, sunscreen, chapstick, foot powder, tissue, baby powder, chewing gum

Emergency First Aid kits: Band-Aids, gauze bandages (any size), ASPIRIN, AND NON-ASPIRIN, Benzene Spray, saline solution, Motrin, Imodium, Aspirin/Tylenol, Neosporin, liquid Band-Aids ("New Skin"), surgical masks, dust masks, rubber gloves, non-latex gloves

Bottled Water

Work Gloves

Flashlights with Batteries

Respirators (preference for serious types that keep out asbestos particles)

Hard Hats, Goggles

Magic Markers, Paper 8.5" x 11", Pens, Masking Tape

Towels, Blankets

T-Shirts (adult), Long-Sleeve Shirts (adults)

Men's Socks

Fanny Packs

Dog Food (for canines - self-opening)

Plastic Trash Bags

Bottled Water

Volunteers are waiting at the Warehouse for your donations including the EXPLORER Newspaper Office at 7235 N Paseo del Norte (one block west of Oracle just North of Ina Road).

Financial donations can be made at the warehouse or at Bank of America ("World Care" account # 004672005056).