ONEONTA, 01/14/10 – State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) today offered local residents with information on how to assist the Haiti relief efforts.
 
"The thoughts and prayers of all New Yorkers go out to the people of Haiti in the wake of this devastating tragedy,” said Senator Seward.   “New Yorkers have a long and proud tradition of providing aid and relief to those in need, and communities across our state are now pulling together to lend a helping hand during this time of great need.

"A number of aid efforts are now underway for those who wish to provide help and support. In order to ensure the prompt delivery of needed relief,  I encourage local residents to consider contacting the American Red Cross, which is helping to lead the effort to meet immediate needs for food, water, temporary shelter and medical services,” Seward concluded.  
 
Seward also reminds donors to be wary of potential scams and fraudulent charities attempting to take advantage of the tragedy.

The state attorney general has offered the following tips to best assure your donation will be used for its intended purpose:

• Give to established charities;
• Evaluate the charities;
• Ask how donations will be used;
• Never give cash;
• Be careful about personal information.

To make a donation on-line and learn more about the recovery efforts, please visit the American Red Cross website.

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