FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - December 13, 2002

CITY TO ASSIST IN COLLECTING SUPPLIES FOR GUAM VICTIMS

Mayor Jeremy Harris announced today that 10 fire stations on Oahu would accept donations of food and household supplies for victims of Typhoon Pongsona on Guam. Stations accepting the supplies include: Kalihi Kai, Kuakini, Waikiki, Hawaii Kai, Kaneohe, Kailua, Waipahu, Kapolei, Mililani Mauka and Moanalua. Donations will be accepted from Monday, December 16, 2002 through Friday, January 17, 2003, between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.

“I spoke with Governor Gutierrez of Guam, and he has asked for our help,” said Mayor Jeremy Harris. “The devastation on that tiny island is unbelievable. Fires are raging, utilities have been decimated, and there is a severe shortfall of the basic necessities of life. Like Hawaii, Guam is very isolated, and recovery will be difficult. Many of us have friends and family there. As a result of Hurricane Iniki, those of us in Hawaii clearly understand the impact of such a catastrophic natural disaster. I know that people want to help, and the City will provide collection points for the relief effort.”

The City will not accept money. Checks should be made out to the American Red Cross and mailed to:

The American Red Cross

Hawaii State Chapter

4155 Diamond Head Road

Honolulu, Hawaii 96816

The following items will be accepted at the 10 fire stations:

• bottled water in various sizes
• solid baby food
• disposable diapers in all sizes
• canned meats (Spain is a good choice)
• rice
• mosquito netting
• toilet paper, other personal hygiene items
• pots, pans and personal mess kits
• infant formula, liquid or powdered
• baby cereal mixes
• baby juices and non-diuretic drinks
• non-perishable food in cans
• personal insect repellent, including coils
• flashlights, lanterns and batteries
• propane cooking units (small, portable)
• strong tents that won’t leak and can be anchored to withstand high winds

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