FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AFA URGES IMMEDIATE SUPPORT FOR VICTIMS OF HURRICANE KATRINA

Contact: Ladd Everitt at (703) 247-5847 or leveritt@afa.org

Arlington, VA, September 2, 2005 – Hurricane Katrina has brought devastation, damage and significant loss of life to those living on the Gulf Coast of the United States. Air Force members and their families are among the victims. In the finest tradition of our nation, the United States Government, our armed forces and hundreds of charitable and relief organizations are working together to provide evacuation, medical assistance, restoration of vital services, housing and food to those affected (a full accounting of Air Force relief efforts can be found at www.af.mil). The Air Force Association (AFA) urges all Americans to remember those affected in their thoughts and prayers.

There is also an immediate need for funds to cover the cost of medical supplies, food and shelter for thousands of refugees and victims. Once the region is stabilized, there will be additional financial need for the re-building of communities and the many institutions which support day-to-day life such as schools, hospitals, daycare facilities, housing and community support services.

Should you wish to assist with the immediate need, AFA suggests making a donation to the charity of your choice. If you want your donation to go toward helping Air Force members and their families directly, we recommend you send your contributions to the Air Force Aid Society (AFAS), which has established a Hurricane Relief Fund. Donations can be made through the AFAS website at http://www.afas.org or by calling (703) 607-3073 or 1-800-769-8951.

A complete list of government approved charities suggested by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) can be found on their website at http://www.fema.gov. These organizations are specifically equipped to provide immediate assistance.

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The Air Force Association (AFA) is an independent, nonprofit, civilian organization promoting public understanding of aerospace power and the pivotal role it plays in the security of the nation. AFA has more than 230 chapters nationwide and overseas, and more than 130,000 members. Visit us on the Internet at www.afa.org.