(Virginia Beach, VA.-- 9/11/01) In less than an hour after the terrorist attacks in New York City and Washington, DC, Operation Blessing International's (OBI) Disaster Response Team was coordinating a plan for disaster aid through its Outreach Centers in both cities. Disaster funding was immediately provided to OBI's New York Center as disaster team members and church networks were beginning to assess the scope of the crisis and the pressing needs of the communities under attack. In addition, OBI's Hunger Strike Force contacted the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and has made available their fleet of tractor-trailer refrigerated trucks to FEMA to transport relief supplies.

"The immediate need is for funding. As we collaborate with our OBI outreach centers in New York and Washington, the plea has come for funding. Monetary donations will allow them to respond immediately to the specific needs that come in within the next 24 to 48 hours," states Richard Kohl, Director of Relief and Disaster Relief for Operation Blessing International. "100% of all donations will go directly to aid the victims of this horrific tragedy."

In New York City, OBI's Outreach Center Director, Rev. Jim Esposito, has requested a prayer movement for the families and loved ones of those hurt in the World Trade Center terrorism. "Our church, Living Word Church, is several blocks from the World Trade Center. Obviously, it is very chaotic in the city right now. And though communication within the city has been limited this morning, we have a large network of churches and relief groups that are mobilizing to aid those who are suffering." OBI's New York Outreach Center, established in the 1980's, provides hunger relief, educational projects, homeless programs, children's outreach, and disaster relief to metro New York City and the surrounding communities.

Founded in 1978, Operation Blessing International is dedicated to bringing hope to millions through hunger relief, medical care, outreach programs, and disaster relief. Since its inception, OBI has served more than 150 million people in 96 countries and in all 50 states.

HOW YOU CAN HELP
You can help by making an online donation toward OBI's disaster relief efforts. With your support, we can continue to provide emergency relief and recovery. Please make an on-line donation today.

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