How can I help?

If, like me, you've been wondering what you can do to help with the current situation in New York, I'd like to take this opportunity to direct all ABCtalers to the Mercy Corps website at www.mercycorps.org.

The Mercy Corps is a non-profit organisation based in both the United States and Scotland. They "exist to alleviate suffering, poverty and oppression by helping people build secure, productive and just communities." They operate in 25 countries and are currently reaching over four million worldwide. They offer emergency relief and sustainable community development, including agriculture, health, housing, economic development, education, environment and local management.

By visiting www.mercycorps.org you can click on four topics concerning New York:

1) How to help
2) How to get help
3) Helping kids cope
4) Share your grief

The helping kids cope is an excellent little aside if your own kids are confused about what's going on in the world. But the how to help section is phenomenal. Through this section you can get in touch with:

1) The Mercy Corps
2) The American Red Cross (who have a disaster relief fund)
3) Catholic Charities
4) Fire donations
5) The Salvation Army
6) United Methodist Comittee on Relief
7) United Way of New York

Alternatively through the site you can find out how to give blood, provide medical assistance or express your grief. There is a section where you can add your own condolences, apply for a volunteer position or - of course - donate cash.

You can read news items and find out about other programs the Mercy Corps are involved in.

It's worth taking a look. www.mercycorps.org