CaribPR Wire

NNU Working to Place Nurses on Haiti Relief Mission

 Probably the largest RN Volunteer Response in U.S. History

 OAKLAND, Calif., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ — Nearly 7,500 registered nurses have now signed up to volunteer for Haiti disaster relief,  believed to be the largest outpouring of RN volunteers in U.S. history, reports National Nurses United which is coordinating the effort, and working around the clock to find locations for the nurses to deploy on the ground in Haiti. Nurses from other countries are signing up through the NNU program as well.

 View the attached volunteer breakdown by state and country

 “As reports of dire medical care shortages continue to pour in, we have thousands of registered nurses willing and ready to travel to Haiti,” said NNU Executive Director Rose Ann DeMoro. “We are doing everything in our power to get these nurses engaged as quickly as possible.”

 DeMoro said the NNU is in contact with the federal government and is also willing to work with other nations that are part of the international relief effort. “We know that the few remaining medical facilities in Haiti and those who are now on the ground are completely overwhelmed. In this enormous human tragedy, it is vital to get the nurses deployed rapidly.”

 NNU, the largest union and professional organization of U.S. nurses, which has also sent hundreds of volunteers on past disaster relief efforts following Hurricane Katrina, the South Asia tsunami, and Southern California wildfires, is presently organizing the first team of nurses for deployment.

 “Registered nurses are particularly skilled professionals who are needed to assess and treat patients and their families and to assess their environment. It is not possible to have a comprehensive care and recovery process without RNs. We need to get nurses there quickly,” said NNU Co-president Karen Higgins, RN.

 Additionally, NNU is asking for hospitals to provide paid relief time for nurse volunteers – several systems have already agreed to do so – and asking pharmaceutical and insurance companies to donate vaccines for the volunteer nurses and other medical supplies to bring to Haiti.

 NNU also requests tax-deductible donations to fund travel and supply costs for the RNs. Donations to Send a Nurse to Haiti may be made on line at www.nationalnursesunited.org. Updates are also available @NationalNurses on twitter or by following: #haitiRN.

Adds Haiti To Optimum Voice Included Calling Area To Facilitate Contact Between Customers And Those Impacted By Devastating Earthquake

 BETHPAGE, N.Y., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Cablevision Systems Corp. (NYSE: CVC) today announced that the unlimited calling area available to Optimum Voice phone customers was being temporarily extended to include calls to landlines and mobile phones in Haiti, in light of this week’s devastating earthquake.

 ”We know we have customers who are trying to reach family and friends in Haiti, and want to do everything we can to help facilitate these connections,” said John Trierweiler, Cablevision’s senior vice president of product management.  “We also know that many are experiencing difficulty placing and completing these calls, frequently with long delays, and do not want our customers to be concerned with fees or per-minute charges while they are trying to reach loved ones in this difficult time.”

Calls to Haiti will continue to be free until further notice, the company said.

 About Cablevision

Cablevision Systems Corporation (NYSE: CVC) is one of the nation’s leading media and entertainment companies. Its cable television operations serve more than 3 million households in the New York metropolitan area. The company’s advanced telecommunications offerings include its iO TV® digital television, Optimum Online® high-speed Internet, Optimum Voice® digital voice-over-cable, and its Optimum Lightpath integrated business communications services. Cablevision operates several successful programming businesses, including AMC, IFC, Sundance Channel and WE tv, through Rainbow Media Holdings LLC, and serves the New York area as publisher of Newsday and other niche publications through Newsday Media Group. In addition to these businesses, Cablevision owns Madison Square Garden and its sports teams, the New York Knicks, Rangers and Liberty. The company also operates New York’s famed Radio City Music Hall, the Beacon Theatre, and the Chicago Theatre, and owns and operates Clearview Cinemas.

Firm’s Charitable Foundation Will Also Match Individual Contributions as Done for Katrina, Tsunami and 9/11 Victims

 NEW YORK Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ — Chadbourne & Parke LLP announced today that the Chadbourne & Parke Foundation will make an initial contribution of $100,000 to charities participating in earthquake relief efforts in Haiti.

 To encourage individual donations, the Firm also established a matching program, in effect until the end of February 2010, whereby individual donations by Firm employees in its U.S. and nine international offices will also be matched by the Foundation.

 ”We are all deeply saddened by the loss of life and devastation caused in Haiti resulting from the recent earthquake,” said Chadbourne Managing Partner Charles K. O’Neill. “Many participating charitable organizations rely heavily on corporate and individual donations and will be in need of additional funds for the relief effort for an extended period.  We want to do our part.”

 The Foundation was created in 2001 to assist victims of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. It supported groups that provided financial assistance to families and individuals who were affected by the attacks but did not qualify for government aid.

 The Firm initially contributed $500,000 to the Foundation and makes additional donations to the Foundation in the names of many clients.

 In 2002, New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg honored the Firm by declaring May 17 “Chadbourne & Parke Day” in New York. This honor recognized the Firm for providing space in its Rockefeller Center offices for more than 100 attorneys and staff in the City of New York’s law department when their downtown offices were unusable after the 9/11 attacks. In 2004, New York Disaster Interfaith Services honored Chadbourne for its donations to the 9/11 recovery group.

 The Chadbourne & Parke Foundation made substantial contributions and established matching programs in 2004 and 2005 to support relief efforts for the Tsunami in Asia and also in 2005 to aid victims of Hurricane Katrina.

 Firm’s Charitable Contribution Advisory Committee, comprising both staff and legal personnel, makes recommendations to the Directors of the Chadbourne & Parke Foundation regarding specific charities which their research shows are likely to continue to be the most effective in long-term relief efforts.

 About Chadbourne & Parke LLP

Chadbourne & Parke LLP, a global law firm headquartered in New York City, provides a full range of legal services, including mergers and acquisitions, securities, project finance, private funds, corporate finance, energy, communications and technology, commercial and products liability litigation, securities litigation and regulatory enforcement, special investigations and litigation, intellectual property, antitrust, domestic and international tax, insurance and reinsurance, environmental, real estate, bankruptcy and financial restructuring, employment law and ERISA, trusts and estates and government contract matters.  Major geographical areas of concentration include Russia, Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Latin America.  The Firm has offices in New York, Washington, DC, Los Angeles, Mexico City, London (an affiliated partnership), Moscow, St. Petersburg, Warsaw (a Polish partnership), Kyiv, Almaty, Dubai and Beijing.  For additional information, visit www.chadbourne.com.

MOUNT LAUREL, N.J., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — As Haiti recovers from the devastating January 12th earthquake, the American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) expresses its concern for residents and relief workers alike. 

 According to AMCA Technical Advisor and Retired U.S. Navy Medical Entomologist Joseph M. Conlon, the region will face both immediate challenges and long-term repercussions:

• Damages caused by the earthquake have created ideal habitat for mosquitoes to lay eggs.
• At present, flies will prove to be an issue for rescue workers in the area, possibly hampering relief efforts.
• In the coming weeks, the traumatized population and rescue workers will feel the impact of increased mosquito activity, as temporary shelters provide little protection from the insects.
• Eventual concerns, which are more challenging to predict, include the spread of mosquito-borne diseases – in particular, malaria and dengue fever.

 Joe Conlon is available to comment on these issues, and is initiating an effort with AMCA to monitor the mosquito crisis.  He will initiate a response with AMCA members and partners based on the feedback from relief workers in Haiti.

 About AMCA

Celebrating 75 years of protecting public health in 2010, the American Mosquito Control Association is an international not-for-profit public service association.  With 1,600 members worldwide, AMCA services are provided mainly to public agencies and their principal staff members engaged in mosquito control, mosquito research and related activities.  The membership extends to more than 50 countries, and includes individuals and public agencies engaged in mosquito control, mosquito research and related activities.  Please visit AMCA online at www.mosquito.org.

Will Also Match Contributions from M&T Employees and Accept Public Contributions at All Branches

 BUFFALO, N.Y., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — M&T Bank announced today that it will make an immediate contribution of $100,000 to the American Red Cross to assist victims of the Haiti earthquake.  M&T will also match dollar-for-dollar all contributions made to the Red Cross by its employees, directors and retirees, up to an additional amount of $100,000.

 The bank will accept contributions from the public at any of its branches.

 ”In response to this disaster, which caused tremendous devastation and tragedy, M&T Bank is joining with our employees, associates, customers and the Red Cross to pull together as a community and offer help,” said M&T Bank Chairman and CEO Robert G. Wilmers. 

 Visit www.mtb.com to find the nearest M&T Bank location.  M&T Bank, the principal bank subsidiary of Buffalo-based M&T Bank Corporation (NYSE: MTB), has more than 750 branch offices located in New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Delaware and the District of Columbia.

FORT WORTH, Texas, Jan. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — RadioShack Corporation (NYSE: RSH) will partner with seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong and LIVESTRONG (the Lance Armstrong Foundation) by pledging to raise funds for Haiti earthquake relief.  RadioShack customers who shop at any company-owned neighborhood store or participating dealer location may make a $1 LIVESTRONG donation in support of Haiti earthquake relief.  Lance Armstrong, on behalf of LIVESTRONG, has pledged a minimum of $250,000 in support for Haiti as he and Team RadioShack prepared this week for Santos Tour Down Under in Australia.

 (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20000518/DATH047LOGO )

 ”The situation for the people of Haiti is desperate and we believe it is critical for us to provide support to relief efforts,” said Julian C. Day, chairman and CEO of RadioShack Corp.  “We invite our customers to join in this collaborative effort with LIVESTRONG to help Haiti recover from this disaster.”

 About RadioShack Corporation
RadioShack Corporation (NYSE: RSH), headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, is one of the nation’s most experienced and trusted consumer electronics specialty retailers, offering innovative products and services from leading brands.  Our knowledgeable, helpful sales associates are committed to enhancing the in-store shopping experience by listening to our customers, offering advice, and partnering with them to find the best technology solutions that fit their needs.  Operating from convenient and accessible neighborhood and mall locations, the company has approximately 4,470 company-operated stores; almost 1,300 dealer outlets; over 450 wireless phone kiosks throughout the U.S.; and approximately 200 company-operated stores in Mexico.  For more information on RadioShack Corporation, or to purchase items online, visit www.RadioShack.com.

SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ — To protect against Internet fraud and ensure Haiti earthquake relief donations reach the intended destinations, the FBI released an in-depth alert yesterday on how U.S. residents can safely help Haitians through contributions. The FBI Alert reached the nation’s 18,000 police departments. For the first time, through one standardized service, more than 170,000 Americans received the FBI’s safety instructions over their cell phones. The Alert was delivered directly from local police departments throughout the country to resident’s cell phones through the secure Nixle Community Information Service. The information included specific tips and guidelines to ensure that donations are being sent to the appropriate places.  Never before have public safety officials had the ability to deliver this type of information directly to the public in a secure and immediate way.

 Residents and agencies nationwide are being encouraged to utilize Nixle, the Community Information Service that delivers authenticated, real-time updates and alerts to citizen subscribers via text, email, and web.

 Since the service launched ten months ago, more than 3,600 police departments in 49 U.S. states have begun using Nixle to distribute relevant news and information. Some departments, such as the NYPD’s 24th precinct, are also using Nixle to encourage residents to reach out to the department for assistance if they have family members in Haiti.

 Craig Mitnick, founder and CEO of Nixle said, “This is such an important informational tool for delivering critical information, and we want all Americans to have access to it.”

 Nixle has a strategic partnership with the International Justice and Public Safety Network, Nlets. Nlets links together every state, local, and federal law enforcement, justice and public safety agency for the purpose of exchanging critical information. Nixle’s technology is integrated into the Nlets system allowing for a secure and authenticated way for government agencies to push out relevant information to geographically targeted residents.

 ”With Nixle, residents have information affecting their neighborhoods in their hands instantly. It’s relevant and local,” said David B. Mitchell, former Secretary of Homeland Security for the state of Delaware. “But the system also lets us share critical information with federal, state, and local first responders. The message that was put out by thousands of local law enforcement agencies today about the scheme to steal money from the Haiti relief project helps keep our citizens aware and safe.”

 About Nixle

Nixle is a community information service provider built exclusively to provide secure and reliable communications. It is the first authenticated and secure service that connects municipal agencies and community organizations to residents in real time, delivering information to geographically targeted consumers over their cell phones (via text messages), through e-mails and via Web access. Nixle has secured a partnership with Nlets (the International Justice and Public Safety Network), allowing local police departments nationwide to send immediate alerts and advisories. Privately funded Nixle, which has offices in New Jersey and California, is available at no cost to all governments, their agencies and organizations, nongovernmental organizations and consumers. For more information, visit www.nixle.com.

High quality, low cost interpretation from English, Spanish and American Sign Language to Haitian Creole is meant to aid communication and assist coordination and relief efforts

 NEW YORK, Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ — Starting immediately, LifeLinks, a leading provider of remote video and telephonic language to language interpretation services will offer over-the-phone Haitian Creole interpretation to news agencies as well as family, friends and business associates of anyone affected by the recent earthquake in Haiti.  This rate, which is below cost, will continue for the duration of the rescue efforts, and will allow English and Spanish speakers in the U.S. and throughout the region to make inexpensive calls interpreted into Haitian Creole.

 Information is available by calling 866-LANGUAGE (866-526-4824), or emailing [email protected].

 In addition, LifeLinks, which is also a leader in American Sign Language video relay and video remote interpretation, is the only company that allows the deaf and hearing impaired in the United States to contact speakers of Haitian Creole in the U.S. and Haiti, at no cost, in their native language, i.e. a deaf person can speak with a hearing person in Haitian Creole and vice versa.

 ”With the devastation we’ve seen in the news over the past few days, we have sought ways where we could contribute our technology, language capability and expertise,” said LifeLinks’ Vice President Ash Kalb.  “Doing what we can to aid communication, which is key during times of disaster, is the best way we can add to the ongoing relief efforts.  LifeLinks staff and management is glad to help.”

 About LifeLinks

 Headquartered in New York, LifeLinks™ is a privately held on-demand video interpreting and relay service, offering live interpretation in over a hundred foreign languages as well as sign language, in real-time, for the hearing impaired. Remote video interpreting and relay is handled through world-class certified interpreters, state-of-the-art videophone technology, and high-speed wireless internet connectivity offering cost effective and mobile solutions for communications needs. For more information on LifeLinks™ or this program, see www.lifelinks.net or lifelinks.presslift.com/Haiti.

20% Haitian Relief Discount Applied to HCCMIS’s Atlas International Travel Medical Plan

 WARWICK, R.I., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ — In the wake of this week’s devastating earthquake, premier travel insurance comparison site InsureMyTrip.com and travel medical provider HCC Medical Insurance Services, LLC (HCCMIS) have launched a special initiative providing medical and evacuation coverage at reduced rates for U.S. travelers heading to Haiti to aid in relief efforts.

(Logo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070529/NETU076LOGO )

 Through an exclusive partnership, a 20% Haitian Relief Discount has been applied to all HCCMIS Atlas International travel medical plans on InsureMyTrip.com covering U.S. citizens traveling to Haiti.  “By working together with HCCMIS, we are able to provide critical coverage most affordably, and protect those traveling to Haiti to assist in relief efforts or to locate loved ones,” explains Jim Grace, President and CEO of InsureMyTrip.com.

 Providing coverage where many traditional healthcare plans leave off, travel medical policies, which also include emergency medical evacuation coverage, provide protection while you’re away from home. Specifically, the HCCMIS Atlas International plan features:

• Medical coverage from $50,000 to $1,000,000
• Emergency medical evacuation to $500,000
• 24-hour Customer Support

InsureMyTrip.com urges relief organizations, aid volunteers, and others traveling to Haiti at this time to contact them for more information.  InsureMyTrip’s expert Customer Care team is standing by to answer questions and provide step-by-step assistance.  Visit www.insuremytrip.com or call (800) 487-4722 to speak with a licensed travel insurance representative, Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to midnight, Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST.

 About InsureMyTrip.com

Established in 2000, InsureMyTrip.com is the leading, consumer-oriented online travel insurance aggregator worldwide.  Featuring insurance comparisons from the top industry providers, InsureMyTrip.com is a unique, one-stop resource designed to meet consumers’ comprehensive travel insurance needs all in a secure environment.  InsureMyTrip.com also specializes in providing integrated technology solutions for the travel insurance industry, with over 2,000 private-labeled and co-branded travel-related websites around the globe.  InsureMyTrip.com is headquartered in Warwick, RI with additional offices and data centers in Connecticut and Oregon.

 About HCCMIS

HCC Medical Insurance Services, LLC (HCCMIS), headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, is a full service organization offering a comprehensive portfolio of insurance products designed specifically to address the insurance needs of consumers worldwide.  HCCMIS is a wholly-owned subsidiary of HCC Insurance Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: HCC), a leading international specialty insurance group with offices across the United States and in the United Kingdom, Spain, and Ireland.  HCC has assets of $9.0 billion, shareholders’ equity of $3.0 billion and is rated AA (Very Strong) by Standard & Poor’s and AA (Very Strong) by Fitch Ratings.  In addition, HCC’s major domestic insurance companies are rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best Company. 

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Funding for onsite relief efforts; Allstate employees and Agency owners also giving

 NORTHBROOK, Ill., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ — Recognizing the urgent need for aid to Haiti, today The Allstate Foundation has made a $50,000 donation to the American Red Cross to assist with humanitarian relief efforts.

 Additionally, with Allstate employees and Agency owners wanting a way to give to the relief efforts in Haiti, the Foundation has created the donation Web site http://american.redcross.org/allstate-emp in partnership with the American Red Cross that allows employees to make a personal donation directly to the relief organization. The Foundation will match every dollar that employees contribute up to an additional $50,000, for a total commitment of up to $100,000.

 ”We are an organization made up of people who truly care and help those in need,” said Vicky Dinges, assistant vice president for Public Social Responsibility at Allstate. “Just as we would help our customers in their time of need, we are reaching out a hand to the victims in Haiti whose lives have been uprooted by this catastrophic earthquake.”

The Foundation’s donation ‘is part of ‘Allstate’s annual charitable and philanthropic contributions that totaled more than $18 million in 2009 to communities across the United States.

 About The Allstate Foundation

Established in 1952, The Allstate Foundation is an independent, charitable organization made possible by subsidiaries of The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL). The Allstate Foundation sponsors community initiatives to promote “safe and vital communities;” “tolerance, inclusion, and diversity;” and “economic empowerment.” The Allstate Foundation believes in the financial potential of every individual and in helping America’s families achieve their American dream. For additional information, visit www.Allstate.com/foundation.

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Astoria Federal Savings announced today that it will make a corporate donation to the American Red Cross to support earthquake relief efforts in Haiti. The announcement was marked by a $25,000 initial contribution to the relief organization which will increase to as much as $50,000 as Astoria Federal matches donations made by the general public at any of its branches throughout Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau, Suffolk and Westchester through February. In addition, Astoria Federal will also match two-for-one every dollar donated by its 1,600 employees to the American Red Cross, or to International Medical Corps or Americares, for gifts of up to $5,000.

 ”Our thoughts are with all those affected by this terrible tragedy,” said Astoria Federal Chairman and Chief Executive Officer George L. Engelke, Jr. “Together, with our customers and employees, we can support the much-needed relief effort.”

 To donate to the American Red Cross, please stop by any one of Astoria Federal’s neighborhood branches throughout Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau, Suffolk and Westchester, or visit http://www.redcross.org. Checks made payable to American Red Cross/Haitian Relief are preferred, however cash will also be accepted.

 Humanitarian organizations such as the American Red Cross have begun sending money, supplies and staff to Haiti to support relief efforts.  According to news reports, the recent earthquake caused catastrophic damage and loss of life. As many as three million people may have been affected by the quake, which collapsed government buildings and caused major damage to hospitals in the area. Humanitarian organizations are mobilizing their efforts to provide rescue services and medical care in a massive international effort.

 Astoria Financial Corporation (NYSE: AF), with assets of $20.7 billion, is the holding company for Astoria Federal Savings and Loan Association.  Established in 1888, Astoria Federal, with deposits in New York totaling $13.2 billion, is the largest thrift depository headquartered in New York and embraces its philosophy of “Putting people first” by providing the customers and local communities it serves with quality financial products and services through 85 convenient banking office locations and multiple delivery channels, including its enhanced website, www.astoriafederal.com. Astoria Federal commands the fourth largest deposit market share in the attractive Long Island market, which includes Brooklyn, Queens, Nassau, and Suffolk counties with a population exceeding that of 38 individual states.  Astoria Federal originates mortgage loans through its banking and loan production offices in New York, an extensive broker network covering sixteen states, primarily along the East Coast, and the District of Columbia, and through correspondent relationships covering seventeen states and the District of Columbia.

QUINCY, Mass., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ — The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company today announced that along with its sister supermarkets it will donate $100,000 to the American Red Cross International Response Fund. Additionally, beginning on Saturday, January, 16th and continuing through January 31st, it will be collecting donations in all stores and corporate offices for the Victims of the Haiti earthquake on behalf of the American Red Cross International Response Fund.

 In a joint statement issued by Ron Onorato, Division President of Stop & Shop Metro New York, and Mark McGowan, Division President Stop & Shop New England, the company stated, “Due to the extent of the catastrophe, we feel we must do as much as we can to help with the relief efforts by giving our associates and customers an easy way to contribute to the earthquake victims. Our friends, neighbors and customers have been impacted by this disaster.  Stop & Shop hopes that all of our customers and associates will support this vital fund raising effort. Together we can make a difference.”

 About Stop & Shop

The Stop & Shop Supermarket Company employs more than 59,000 associates and operates stores throughout Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, New York, and New Jersey. The company is a member of the US Green Building Council and has been awarded LEED (EB) certifications for 50 of its existing stores.  Stop & Shop has been recognized by the EPA for the superior energy management of its stores and is also a member of the EPA’s Smart Way program.

Global travel insurance leader rushing to assist hundreds of customers in the quake zone

 RICHMOND, Va., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ — In the best of times, getting things done in a country like Haiti can be a challenge. In the aftermath of the worst earthquake in that country in the last 200 years, Mondial Assistance, the world’s leading provider of travel insurance and global medical assistance, has been working 24/7 to identify customers in the quake zone who may need assistance. So far the company has identified hundreds of customers from the 28 countries where it has operation centers, including around 300 from the United States and others from France, Canada and the Netherlands.

 ”Disasters like the earthquake in Haiti present special challenges. Electricity is out. Phones are out. Hospitals have been damaged. We have to send in personnel to look for our customers,” said Jon Ansell, president and CEO of the company’s US operation. Several people from the company are en route to Haiti to begin assisting our customers with everything from medical assistance and evacuations to relaying messages to family back home.

 Mondial Assistance also has correspondents in Haiti as well as the Dominican Republic and Martinique who are assisting customers in the region. “Our global provider network is unmatched in our industry and makes all the difference in situations like these,” said Ansell.

 Mondial Assistance encourages the families of its customers to call their US call center for assistance in locating their loved ones.  Company representatives can be reached at 866-456-3107 (or 804-673-5473 if calling collect) anytime day or night.

 About Mondial Assistance

Mondial Assistance is a global leader in specialty insurance and emergency assistance services. Four percent of the world’s population, or about 250 million people, are served by Mondial Assistance businesses around the globe. In the United States, Mondial Assistance is a brand name of World Access Service Corp., which is best known for its Access America® brand of travel insurance and assistance services. As one of 28 business units, the U.S. operation serves major travel suppliers, health insurers, credit card, and entertainment companies with insurance products, international travel assistance, and concierge services. Mondial Assistance is part of the Allianz group of companies. For more information please visit: www.mondialUSA.com.

MIAMI, Jan. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Royal Caribbean Cruises, one of Haiti’s largest foreign investors for almost 30 years, today announced its plans to provide at least $1 million in humanitarian relief to Haiti in response to the catastrophic earthquake in Port-Au-Prince.  Royal Caribbean will be partnering with charitable organizations – such as Food for the Poor, Pan American Development Foundation, and the Solano Foundation, the company’s foundation in Haiti – to provide additional assistance to the people of Haiti.  Royal Caribbean will also be delivering much needed goods and supplies to Haiti via their cruise ships.

 ”The effect of the earthquake on Haiti has been catastrophic, leaving the country in need of not only immediate support, but assistance in their long-term recovery,” said Richard D. Fain, chairman and chief executive officer, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.  “Royal Caribbean wants to do its part to help out not only the general response, but also our hundreds of Haitian employees and their families through this disaster.”

 ”In addition to our financial contribution, Royal Caribbean will continue to provide economic support through the continuous business we bring to Labadee,” Fain added.

 Leslie Voltaire, Special Envoy of the government of Haiti to the United Nations said, “Given the terrible economic and social challenges we now face in Haiti, we welcome the continuation of the positive economic benefits that the cruise ship calls to Labadee contribute to our country.”

 The benefits start with Royal Caribbean International’s Independence of the Seas’ call today to Labadee, Haiti, which includes much needed supplies for the country.  The supplies were loaded on the ship during its call in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and include items such as rice, dried beans, powdered milk, water and canned goods.  In addition, 100 percent of the company’s net revenue from the destination will be contributed to the relief effort. 

In the next two weeks, the following ships are scheduled to call on Labadee with additional supplies: Navigator of the Seas on Monday, January 18; Liberty of the Seas on Tuesday, January 19; and Celebrity Solstice on Friday, January 22.  When the supplies arrive in Labadee, they will be transported to an offsite location to be distributed by Food for the Poor, a long time partner of Royal Caribbean in Haiti.

 In addition to working with Food for the Poor to distribute relief supplies, guests sailing onboard Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises will be able to make a donation to Food for the Poor’s Haiti Relief Fund, via a charge to their onboard account.  Guests who would like to contribute immediately can visit www.foodforthepoor.org/royalcaribbean to make a donation.  Royal Caribbean also plans to use a portion of the $1 million donation to augment the company’s Crew Relief Fund, which can be drawn on by any of the company’s more than 200 Haitian crew members for assistance, as well as to match employee contributions to the partner organizations.

 As the initial response effort gives way to the long-term recovery effort, Royal Caribbean will consider further support efforts.

 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is a global cruise vacation company that operates Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Pullmantur, Azamara Cruises and CDF Croisieres de France.  The company has a combined total of 39 ships in service and four under construction.  It also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, Canada, Dubai, Europe and South America.  Additional information can be found on www.royalcaribbean.com, www.celebritycruises.com, www.pullmantur.es, www.azamaracruises.com, www.cdfcroisieresdefrance.com or www.rclinvestor.com.

Shoe Company to Donate 10,000 Pairs of Shoes to the Victims

 NASHVILLE, Tenn., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ — Soles4Souls (www.giveshoes.org) and Vans have partnered to provide shoes and other relief supplies to victims of the devastating earthquake in Haiti.

 Vans will donate 10,000 pairs of shoes to survivors and volunteers as part of an industry-wide relief effort mounted by Soles4Souls.  In addition to a complete aid package that includes food, bottled water, medical supplies, tents, blankets, flashlights and baby products, Soles4Souls and its partners will provide more than 100,000 pairs of shoes.

 Soles4Souls has partnered with Operation Compassion, a charity that mobilizes support for victims of natural disasters around the world, to transport and distribute the aid. Thirty containers of supplies, including work boots, rain boots, children’s athletic shoes and clothing items, are already en route to Haiti.

 ”As we struggle to comprehend the magnitude of this disaster, we cannot forget how important basic necessities – such as shoes – will be in the ongoing rescue and rebuilding efforts,” said Wayne Elsey, Founder and CEO of Soles4Souls. “We are grateful to our good friends at Vans for their support. This generous donation will enable us to provide these essential items to survivors and volunteers as they work in horrific conditions.”

 The death toll from Tuesday’s quake continues to rise, and survivors and rescuers are facing dire health conditions including stifling heat, lack of clean water, broken glass and raw sewage, and essential items such as shoes.

 ”We are honored to be a part of this important relief effort,” said Kevin Bailey, President of Vans. “With mounting public health concerns about conditions in the area, something as simple as a pair of shoes can make a huge impact on relief efforts. We are grateful to Soles4Souls for leading the charge to bring these and other basic necessities to victims.”

 For more information on how to get involved and donate to the victims in Haiti, visit www.giveshoes.org.

 About Soles4Souls®

Soles4Souls is a Nashville-based charity that collects shoes from warehouses of footwear companies and the closets of people like you.  We distribute these shoes, free of charge, to people in need around the world. Since 2005, Soles4Souls has given away over 7 million pairs of new and gently worn shoes (currently distributing one pair every 9 seconds). The shoes have been distributed in 125 countries, including Haiti, Kenya, Nepal and the United States. Soles4Souls is a 501(c)(3) recognized by the IRS and donating parties are eligible for tax advantages.

 About Vans®

Vans, the leader in action sports footwear and apparel, is a brand of VF Corporation (NYSE: VFC).  Vans collections, which include active footwear, apparel and accessories, snowboard boots and outerwear and the Pro-tec line of protective gear, are sold in the United States through more than 200 company owned stores and factory outlets as well as independent retailers.  Internationally, Vans sells its goods in approximately 50 countries through a network of distributors, sales agents and foreign offices.  Vans supports and promotes the action sports lifestyle through such events and destinations as, the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing™, The Vans Downtown Showdown, the Pro-tec Pool Party and the Vans Warped Tour®.

Luke Perry, Amy Grant, Vince Gill, and Senator Bill Frist Join the Effort

 NASHVILLE, Tenn., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ — Soles4Souls Inc., the shoe charity, originally committed to 100,000 pairs of shoes for the rebuilding efforts in Haiti.  It turns out that figure was too low.

 ”Once again, our partners in the footwear industry have been phenomenal,” said Wayne Elsey, Founder and CEO.  “From the largest shoe brands to single store owners across the country, each has stepped up to donate new shoes and funds for the Haiti Relief Project.  We are grateful that we can now commit to a quarter of a million pairs of shoes to people in need on the ground,” he said.

 In partnership with several other organizations, Soles4Souls is sending emergency aid that includes footwear, food, medical supplies, bottled water, tents, blankets, baby products and more.  The charity is also planning for a sustained giving campaign to make sure its resources are maximized and channeled properly to each aid organization on the ground in Haiti.

 ”This is going to be a long and painful rebuilding process, and if we don’t act in a sustainable, calculated manner we could end up doing more harm than good,” Elsey said.

 Elsey said that his organization has received truckloads of work boots, rain boots, children’s athletic shoes, sport sandals, socks and other accessories to be delivered as soon as possible to aid centers in Haiti.  The general public can participate by visiting www.giveshoes.org to find a donation center nearby, or to make a cash donation online.

 Elsey said his charity continues to receive generous support from the general public, as well.  “Churches, schools, civic groups and neighborhood associations are reporting an amazing number of donations, and we are honored by the tremendous work done on our behalf,” he said.

 Many notable athletes, singers and politicians are also adding their assistance, such as Luke Perry, Amy Grant, Vince Gill, and Senator Bill Frist.

 The Haitian capital, Port-au-Prince, and many surrounding villages were devastated by the largest earthquake to strike in over 200 years.  News reports are painting a terrifying picture of death and disorder among a people already devastated by poverty and natural disaster.

 According to Soles4Souls, a pair of new shoes is absolutely necessary in order for the Haitian survivors to be effective in rescue and rebuilding efforts amidst broken glass, twisted metal and raw sewage.

 For more information on how to get involved and donate to the victims in Haiti, visit www.giveshoes.org.

 About Soles4Souls®

Soles4Souls is a Nashville-based charity that collects shoes from warehouses of footwear companies and the closets of people like you.  We distribute these shoes, free of charge, to people in need around the world. Since 2005, Soles4Souls has given away over 7 million pairs of new and gently worn shoes (currently distributing one pair every 9 seconds). The shoes have been distributed in 125 countries, including Haiti, Kenya, Nepal and the United States. Soles4Souls is a 501(c) (3) recognized by the IRS and donating parties are eligible for tax advantages.

Children’s Clothing Company Donates Shoes To Those Affected By The Devastating Earthquake

 PHILADELPHIA, Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ — In an attempt to lend support and aid to victims of the devastating earthquake in Haiti, Olive Juice is putting their right foot forward and donating over 200 pairs of unworn shoes to the non-profit Soles4Souls, which is committed to providing 100,000 pairs of shoes to those affected by the magnitude 7.0 earthquake.

In partnering and working with other organizations, like Olive Juice, Soles4Souls is sending emergency aid, including but not limited to: footwear, food, medical supplies, bottled water, blankets, baby products, and more. Olive Juice has been a long time contributor and supporter of Soles4Souls and could not let this natural disaster, which has affected as many as 500,000 people, go by without doing something about it.

“In times such as this it is imperative that we act as selfless as possible to help those who truly need it,” said Olive Juice Founder and CEO Maryellen Kane. “The Haitian people are going through turmoil that we cannot even begin to imagine, and making this donation to Soles4Souls is the least we could do. Soles4Souls is an outstanding organization and we fully support their efforts to lend aid in this time of tragedy.”

 ”We are deeply saddened by the tragedy unfolding in Haiti,” said Wayne Elsey, Founder and CEO of Soles4Souls. “This is going to require a sustained humanitarian effort from all of us who can give, and Soles4Souls will be here to do our part with the gift of shoes to aid in the rescue and rebuilding process.”

 In addition to the shoe donation, Olive Juice is also donating several hundred new pieces of their quality children’s apparel. For more information on how to get involved and donate to the Haitian relief please visit www.giveshoes.org. For more information on Olive Juice please visit www.olivejuicekids.com.

 About Soles4Souls®

 Soles4Souls is a Nashville-based charity that collects shoes from warehouses of footwear companies and the closets of people like you. We distribute these shoes, free of charge, to people in need around the world. Since 2005, Soles4Souls has given away over 7 million pairs of new and gently worn shoes (currently distributing one pair every 9 seconds). The shoes have been distributed in 125 countries, including Haiti, Kenya, Nepal and the United States. Soles4Souls is a 501(c)(3) recognized by the IRS and donating parties are eligible for tax advantages.

 About Olive Juice

Olive Juice was founded in 2003 by Maryellen Kane based on the belief that parents should have the opportunity to choose from a quality brand of clothing for their children. Since then, the children’s apparel company has been dedicated to producing classic and timeless children’s wear reminiscent of the days of yesteryear. Their distinctive and beautifully designed items are made to capture the curiosity and wonderment of childhood by allowing children to enjoy their age in comfort and sophisticated style. Olive Juice continues to innovate and create apparel that is inspired by childhood imagination and the marvelous nature of youth. For more information on Olive Juice please visit, www.OliveJuiceKids.com.

HOUSTON, Jan. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Continental Airlines (NYSE: CAL) today announced steps to assist in the Haiti earthquake recovery effort.

 Members of Continental’s OnePass frequent flyer program are now eligible to donate miles, in the amount of their choosing, to two major charitable organizations involved in the Haiti relief effort.  OnePass miles may be donated to The American Red Cross and AmeriCares.  To make a donation, OnePass members should visit continental.com and see Donate Your Miles.

 Continental also is waiving change fees and additional fare collections for certain tickets to the Dominican Republic, adjacent to Haiti.  The policy is available on the Important Notices section of continental.com

 Continental is remaining in contact with various U.S. government agencies regarding their transportation needs.  The airline will announce its participation in governmentally-sponsored official relief activities as they occur.

 Continental does not fly to Haiti but does serve three cities in the neighboring country of the Dominican Republic – Santo Domingo, Punta Cana and Puerto Plata.  Today’s flights to Santo Domingo are full with travelers including relief workers.   In the vanguard on Wednesday was a search-and-rescue team with four dogs which traveled on Continental from Spain to Santo Domingo via Newark/New York.

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Reynolds American Inc. (NYSE: RAI) has announced the following: “Reynolds American Foundation donates $100,000 for Haiti earthquake relief.”

 Go to RAI’s Web site, www.ReynoldsAmerican.com, to read the full release.

 Web Disclosure

 RAI’s Web site, www.ReynoldsAmerican.com, is now the primary source of publicly disclosed news about RAI and its operating companies.  We use the Web site as our primary means of distributing quarterly earnings and other company news.  We encourage investors and others to register at www.ReynoldsAmerican.com to receive alerts when news about the company has been posted.

Company establishes matching relief fund through Henry Schein Cares Foundation

 MELVILLE, N.Y., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — In response to the devastating earthquake in Haiti, Henry Schein, Inc. (Nasdaq: HSIC), the largest provider of health care products and services to office-based dental, medical and animal health practitioners, and its supplier partners have earmarked $1 million in life-saving medical supplies to partner non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that are providing relief.

 Within hours of the reports of the earthquake, pallets of much needed supplies were prepared for shipment to partner NGOs, including AmeriCares, Direct Relief International, Heart to Heart International, International Medical Corps, LDS Charities and Medshare through Henry Schein Cares, the Company’s global social responsibility program.  As part of Henry Schein Cares disaster preparedness efforts, the Company already had pallets of essential supplies packed and on site at the warehouses of several partner NGOs to ensure immediate response to humanitarian emergencies.  These products are already on their way to Haiti. 

 ”As Haitian officials continue to assess the damage caused by this tragic earthquake, Henry Schein Cares is working closely with our partner NGOs to seek opportunities to support humanitarian relief efforts,” said Stanley M. Bergman, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer for Henry Schein.  “We stand ready to do our part to support our NGO partners and are committed to quickly getting these essential medical relief supplies on the ground to those who need them.” 

In the past, Henry Schein Cares has responded to other disasters including the cyclone in Myanmar and earthquake in China in 2008, Hurricanes Katrina and Rita on the U.S. Gulf Coast; the 2004 Asian tsunami; the 2005 earthquake in Pakistan; the conflict in Israel, Lebanon, and Palestine; and September 11.

To enable Team Schein Members and others outside of the Company to support relief efforts in a coordinated way, the Company also has established a Haitian Earthquake Relief Fund through the Henry Schein Cares Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization.  Henry Schein will match all donations contributed to this fund by Team Schein Members, and the proceeds will be applied directly and completely to relief efforts.  Anyone wishing to contribute to this fund should make the check payable to “Henry Schein Cares Foundation” with “Haitian Earthquake Relief Fund” noted in the memo of the check, and send it to Dewi Wijaya at Henry Schein, Inc., 135 Duryea Road, Melville, NY  11747.  Donations to the Henry Schein Cares Foundation are tax deductible in the United States.

 About Henry Schein

Henry Schein, a Fortune 500® company and a member of the NASDAQ 100® Index, is recognized for its excellent customer service and highly competitive prices.  The Company’s four business groups – Dental, Medical, International and Technology – serve more than 590,000 customers worldwide, including dental practitioners and laboratories, physician practices and animal health clinics, as well as government and other institutions.  The Company operates through a centralized and automated distribution network, which provides customers in more than 200 countries with a comprehensive selection of more than 90,000 national and Henry Schein private-brand products in stock, as well as more than 100,000 additional products available as special-order items.  Henry Schein also provides exclusive, innovative technology offerings for dental, medical and veterinary professionals, including value-added practice management software and electronic health record solutions.

Headquartered in Melville, N.Y., Henry Schein employs more than 13,500 people and has operations or affiliates in 23 countries.  The Company’s net sales reached a record $6.4 billion in 2008.  Henry Schein has been ranked first in its industry for social responsibility for five consecutive years in Fortune’s list of the World’s Most Admired Companies.  For more information, visit the Henry Schein Web site at www.henryschein.com.