S. Korea's Red Cross aiming to raise 3 billion won in cash for Haiti

SEOUL, Jan. 18 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's Red Cross said Monday it has pledged 3
billion won (US$2.66 million) in cash to Haiti to help with relief efforts in the
quake-stricken country.

A massive 7.0 magnitude earthquake hit the Caribbean state Wednesday. Authorities
there fear the death toll could reach as high as 200,000, according to the latest
reports.
The powerful earthquake is reported to have destroyed thousands of buildings and
homes in the capital and surrounding areas.
The Red Cross office in South Korea said the greatest need in Haiti is for money
due to the logistical limitations there.
"The Haiti ports and airports are not functioning properly, as they are
overwhelmed by people and relief goods," said Yoo Chong-ha, the head of the Red
Cross office here.
He said it would be it more efficient to buy items identified as needs from
places in or near the scene of the disaster.
The South Korean Red Cross said it has so far received 570 million won in
donations since last Friday.
The Red Cross' Haitian office estimated that the earthquake in Haiti has left
300,000 people homeless.
ygkim@yna.co.kr
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