American Red Cross Disaster Newsroom

Disaster Alert

Situation Overview

Due to conflict between government and opposition forces, the humanitarian situation in Syria has worsened, especially in the cities of Homs and Al Zabadani. Food and water supplies are running low and thousands of people are trapped in their homes or are fleeing to escape the fighting.

The Syrian Arab Red Crescent has been assisting those in need since the violence began 10 months ago. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has recently called for a daily two-hour cease-fire so that the Red Crescent can deliver emergency aid to the wounded and sick.

The secretary general of the Syrian Arab Red Crescent was killed January 25 while traveling in a vehicle clearly marked with the Red Crescent emblem. Members of the Global Red Cross and Red Crescent network have called for those involved in the violence to respect the mission of the Red Crescent, which is to assist those in need in a neutral and impartial manner.

American Red Cross Response

The American Red Cross is monitoring the situation and stands ready to provide assistance as needed. Previously, in October 2011, the American Red Cross committed $135,000 to support Red Cross and Red Crescent response activities in Syria due to unrest.

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Disaster Alert

Mexico – The country’s worst drought in more than 70 years is devastating water and food supplies throughout Mexico. Thousands of cattle have died and more than two million acres of crops have been destroyed, with northern states seeing record levels of drought.

The Mexican Red Cross has responded by providing food and relief supplies to vulnerable populations in high mountainous regions, including more than 10,000 native Tarahumara Indian families.

Donations mailed to local chapters may be designated to assist with drought relief efforts in Mexico until March 16, 2012. Visit the American Red Cross website to find the chapter nearest you.