Appeal to help tsunami victims | Canterbury News | Local News in Canterbury

APN New Zealand newspapers, including the Christchurch Star, have so far raised more than $500,000 in an appeal to help victims of the Boxing Day tsunami.

The group's newspapers throughout New Zealand and Australia have joined forces to support the sufferers. We are appealing to you, our loyal readers and advertisers, to lend a hand and give money.

APN New Zealand is donating $50,000. APN Australia is also donating $50,000.

Through the APN newspaper network New Zealanders are being asked to donate via a Telecom 4-line automated service.

To donate dial: 0900 60010, to give $10 0900 60020, to give $20 0900 60050, to give $50 0900 60080, to give $80

Red Cross will deliver appeal funds to the tsunami sufferers and will not deduct money for administration costs.

Millions are homeless. They urgently need food, water and medical supplies.

"This is a greatest natural disaster in living memory, APN New Zealand regional newspapers' chief operating officer Craig Marsh said.

"We sympathise with the victims and their families. They deserve all the help they can get. We at APN recognise that our newspapers can play a positive role," Marsh said.

Red Cross says it is grateful for the valuable support of APN.

"We are currently providing life-saving essential relief items such as water, shelter and first-aid but a long-term response will be required to help these countries rebuild," a Red Cross spokesperson said.