September 12, 2017

Dear Concerned Rotarians of District 5110,

As we return from Labor Day celebrations to begin the new school year and resume more routine daily schedules, many of our fellow Rotarians are suffering from the catastrophic consequences of events beyond their control.  Hurricanes Harvey and Irma are wreaking havoc on a massive scale.  Closer to home, many Rotarians in several areas ranging from the south coast to northern California are suffering from the effects of raging wildfires that have left many in our District without homes or the basic necessities of everyday life.  Others face the possibility of immediate evacuation with certain impact upon their businesses and livelihoods.    

As the compassionate individuals that Rotarians are, I know that many of you are seeking the most effective means of providing immediate and effective assistance.  We are in the process of determining how best to respond to our local events, but we can tell you how to help respond to Hurricanes Harvey and Irma.

In recognition of events in North America, RI has created two Donor-Advised Funds under The Rotary Foundation available to accept contributions for hurricane relief: The Gulf Coast Disaster Relief DAF was established to assist communities devastated by Hurricane Harvey.  The Hurricane Emergency Relief DAF is accepting contributions for Hurricane Irma disaster recovery.

If you would like to help please go to the following link: https://www.your-fundaccount.com/rotary/HowToContribute.asp.  You can contribute online with a credit card or follow the instructions for contributions by check or wire transfer.  You will need to provide the specific name of the Rotary Foundation Donor Advised Fund and the account number.

Enter: The Gulf Coast Disaster Relief DAF, Account Number 608
OR: Hurricane Emergency Relief DAF, Account Number 296

Please share this information with your fellow Rotarians and Rotary Clubs.  If you have any questions, contact relief@rotary.org. or District Governor Claudette Mirassou McWilliams at dgclaudette1718@gmail.com