Washington State Senators Issue Statement on Haiti

WASHINGTON, DC – Today,  Senators Patty Murray (D-WA)  and  Maria Cantwell (D-WA) issued the following joint statement on the tragic earthquake in Haiti. 

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Haiti as they cope with the tragic and devastating earthquake that struck this week, and to Haitian-Americans struggling to contact loved-ones. We commend the international relief workers, volunteers, and federal, state, and local first responders for their courageous efforts.  We especially want to thank those brave Washingtonians travelling to Haiti to lend their expertise, and the Washington-based aid organizations such as World Vision and World Concern that already have volunteers on the ground.  Countless Washingtonians are contributing much-needed funds, and our offices are ready to assist Washingtonians seeking information on how they can help. We are receiving daily updates from the Coast Guard, which is on the scene with ships and aircraft and working alongside other U.S. military forces in managing evacuations and the arrival of aid. We will be working with our House and Senate colleagues and the White House to ensure a robust U.S. contribution to what is certain to be a massive and protracted relief effort.”

Donations can be made to the Red Cross International Response Fund or by calling 1-800-REDCROSS (1-800-733-2767). The public can also help by texting “Haiti” to 90999 to send a $10 donation to the Red Cross, through an effort backed by the U.S. State Department. Funds will go to support American Red Cross relief efforts in Haiti.  You can also donate to Washington-based World Vision  or Washington-based World Concern.

If you are trying to reach a U.S. citizen living or traveling in Haiti, contact the U.S. Department of State, Office of Overseas Citizens Services at 1-888-407-4747.  If trying to reach a Haitian citizen, callers should continue to call or contact other family members who live nearby.

Senator Cantwell chairs the Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, and Coast Guard Subcommittee of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee; Senator Murray is a senior member of the  Senate Appropriations Committee.