The British Red Cross has launched an emergency appeal to help survivors of the devastating earthquake that hit Christchurch, New Zealand on 22 February 2011.
 
A devastating earthquake hit Christchurch, New Zealand on Tuesday. As of Thursday 24th February 98 people have been confirmed dead and 300 more are reported missing.

The New Zealand Red Cross responded immediately, providing first aid assistance and distributing blankets, water containers and tents to the displaced families. It is also helping with the search and rescue operation and putting people in contact with their loved ones. An evacuation centre has been opened for around 2,000 people and more temporary accommodation is likely to be needed.
      
The British Red Cross has contributed £50,000 from its Disaster Fund, but we need your help to continue to meet the growing need. 
 
All funds will be used towards the New Zealand Red Cross response to the disaster, including transport and the essential provision of aid.
 
In the event that we receive donations after the New Zealand Red Cross has closed its appeal, any surplus funds will go to our Disaster Fund and be used to respond to future humanitarian disasters either overseas or here in the UK. For more information visit redcross.org.uk.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - the charity raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

So please dig deep and donate now.