The Barbados Red Cross Society in support of the Appeal by the International Federation of the Red Cross, will in the next few days launch an appeal to which donations can be made with commercial banks, to support the victims of powerful hurricanes Irma and Jose that have hit the Caribbean and Americas region.

The International Federation of the Red Cross has launched an initial appeal for the equivalent of 1.1 million Swiss Francs for Barbuda and Antigua. The Appeal figure will be adjusted upwards following full field assessments.

Hundreds of Red Cross Volunteers are playing a central role in relief efforts and helping evacuated communities faced by this catastrophic situation.

The Antigua and Barbuda Red Cross revealed there are adequate amounts of food and general supplies already assigned for the victims, but what is urgently required is financial assistance to help persons rebuild their homes.

The International Federation of the Red Cross is paying special attention to the immediate provision of emergency shelter and health requirements, including water and sanitation needs in affected areas. The relief operation will place heavy emphasis on cash – ensuring that people who lost their homes and belongings have financial resources to navigate the coming difficult weeks.

The hurricane situation is still an unfolding and developing one where the numbers of victims are growing significantly and the International Red Cross is assessing all developments and will respond accordingly.

Thanking all Barbadians in anticipation of their kind support.