Mideast Crisis Aid Appeal

Mon, 14 Aug 2006 06:10:07 GMT

Friends,

During Tsunami 2004 that hit Asia in December of 2004, I was compelled to do my small part in helping alleviate the human suffering caused by that natural tragedy. My charitable works normally remain anonymous, but today I find my life very personally affected by events happening in Lebanon. The humanitarian crisis that has been created there by Israel "defending herself" is truly abysmal. Within 30 days, they've managed to create another million homeless people. People who did not deserve this wrath that has been visited upon them. Regardless, it is what it is and the situation is getting pretty bad by all accounts, including personal accounts from family and friends. Electrical powerplants have been destroyed; food and medicine supply chains have been obliterated; access to potable water is becoming a serious problem. Any one of these calamities would be great cause for concern to any population, but the loss of all three is going to have grave repercussions to the displaced peoples of Lebanon in the coming weeks and months. And with aid being hindered by Israel's continued onslaught on roads and other transport channels, the death toll is expected to rise dramatically.

In 2004, I was touched by the events that unfolded and ensuing disastrous toll brought on by the Indian Ocean Earthquake. I was greatly moved to not just pay respect and feel sorrow, but to reach deep and give generously. I chose two of the many worthy organizations involved in the rescue and rebuilding efforts, based on my own personal beliefs and preferences. I chose to pledge $500 to each of the Red Cross and Unicef as I found these to be non-partisan and non-proselytizing. They are out to help people in need, not make new Christian, Muslim, or Jewish converts of the disaster-stricken and vulnerable victims of tragedy.

I find myself choosing these two organizations again now in 2006 to support the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon. It is clear that Israel is going to get away scott-free with this travesty and will never be brought to justice nor be forced to pay reparations to ease the suffering or repair the damage they've cause. It will be up to international aid organizations to help the people survive this ordeal.

I hate to ask this of anyone, but I feel I must do something to help... something to give those people there a fighting chance at survival... I appeal to all good hearted souls out there with the means, to give to one of these organization, even if it is only $10; the price of a pack of smokes or a couple of beers.

Sincere regards, and Peace...

Simon

Mideast Crisis Donation Links:

Unicef -- http://unicefcanada.cmail1.com/.aspx/l/74347/36880740/httpsli7li1//secure.unicef.ca/portal/SmartDefault.aspx?at=1211&cID=7&uID=562177&xID=06EL2_A_184&appealID=32

International Committee of the Red Cross -- http://www.icrc.org/web/eng/siteeng0.nsf/iwpList2/Help_the_ICRC?OpenDocument

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Alert: Mideast in Crisis

Conflict in the Middle East has left hundreds of thousands of children displaced and vulnerable. UNICEF Canada urgently appeals to fellow Canadians to support our work on the ground, providing desperately-needed aid and supplies to affected children and their families.

Please consider making an immediate donation.

Help the victims of war: make a donation to the ICRC today

"The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) relies on everyone’s commitment to the humanitarian cause and its underlying values. The strongest possible support from individuals, companies and foundations is essential if we are to meet the challenges we are currently facing. Your support to ICRC is more than just a donation - it is a true act of humanity. Thank you".

Jakob Kellenberger, President of the ICRC

Emergency in Lebanon

Recent days have witnessed the worst escalation of armed conflict between Israel and Lebanon for many years, causing numerous casualties on both sides, widespread destruction of Lebanon’s infrastructure, the displacement of increasing numbers of Lebanese families and general uncertainty as to when and where the violence will end. Most casualties on both sides of the border have been civilians.

Thank you for your help.

Klatu verata niktu: Organizations

Mideast Crisis Aid Appeal