CaribPR Wire

Pan American Relief site to be promoted by MTV Networks Latin America

 WASHINGTON, Jan. 16 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The more than 70 million online Brazilians may donate to Haiti relief efforts using a new Portuguese website called www.AjudaPanamericana.org, the Pan American Development Foundation and the Organization of American States announced.

 AjudaPanamericana.org is the third language option offered by the non-profit PADF as it accepts donations to help Haitian survivors of the 7.0 earthquake.

 ”Since Brazil is the fifth most populous nation in the world and one of the leaders in overall Internet usage, AjudaPanamericana.org is an important channel for relief donations,” says John Sanbrailo, PADF’s Executive Director.

 PADF – a non-profit organization that also serves as the OAS’s natural disaster relief arm – has worked in Haiti for 30 years on economic development, protecting human rights and responding to natural disasters. Prior to the quake, PADF had more than 150 people in Haiti.

 MTV Networks Latin America will promote this initiative through its on-air and on-line network.

 In addition to www.AjudaPanamericana.org, donations may be made in English in the United States at (877) 572-4484; online in English at www.PanAmericanRelief.org and in Spanish at www.AyudaPanamericana.org

  About MTV Networks Latin America

 MTV Networks Latin America, Inc., a unit of Viacom Inc., owns and operates MTV Latin America, Nickelodeon Latin America, VH1 Latin America, Viacom Networks Brazil and the MTV Networks Digital Suite, a package of five digital services – MTV Jams, MTV Hits, VH1 Soul, VH1 Mega Hits and Nickelodeon’s GAS (Games and Sports for Kids). 

 MTV Networks Latin America connects with its audiences through interactive properties including its online websites, www.mtvla.com, www.mundonick.com and www.vh1la.com, as well as through its broadband and community sites:  www.mtvrevolution.com and www.lazona.com.

 ABOUT PADF

 PADF is a non-profit organization established in 1962 to promote, facilitate, and implement social and economic development in Latin America and the Caribbean. In the past year, it had more than 5.6 million beneficiaries in 18 countries.

PADF is one of the largest non-governmental organizations in Haiti. With nearly three decades of work on the ground, PADF now manages a large portfolio of activities ranging from community-driven development to protecting human rights.

 Its headquarters is in Washington, D.C., and has field offices in Haiti, Colombia, the Dominican Republic and elsewhere. www.padf.org

OAKLAND, Calif., Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ — Kaiser Permanente announced today that it has donated $500,000 to four national disaster relief organizations to provide aid to the victims of this week’s earthquake in Haiti.  The nonprofit health care organization has wired the funding to Doctors Without Borders, Relief International, Operation USA and MedShare International, and is providing expertise and support to U.S. disaster response teams.

 ”Our deepest sympathies go out to the victims and their families following the devastating earthquake in Haiti on Tuesday,” said Raymond J. Baxter, Ph.D., senior vice president, Community Benefit, Research and Health Policy, Kaiser Permanente. “Kaiser Permanente has a long history of providing support to communities in need, and will be there for the people of Haiti through the stages of their recovery and rebuilding.”

 The Kaiser Permanente contribution to Haitian relief efforts includes:

• $200,000 to Doctors Without Borders
• $200,000 to Relief International
• $50,000 to Operation USA
• $50,000 to MedShare International

Some Kaiser Permanente physicians and nurses who are trained in disaster relief already have departed for Haiti on behalf of the aid organizations with which they are affiliated.

 Kaiser Permanente has worked closely with these and other relief organizations during previous times of crises including support to Southeast Asia following the tsunami of 2004,  the earthquake in Pakistan in 2005 and the earthquake in Indonesia in 2006.  In addition, for each of the past five years, Kaiser Permanente has supported ongoing recovery efforts in the Gulf Coast following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005 through financial contributions and the deployment of teams of volunteers.

 In total, Kaiser Permanente has contributed more than $5 million since 2004 to charitable organizations globally that provide humanitarian aid for disaster relief, recovery and rebuilding.

 Kaiser Permanente will continue to provide further resources to Haiti as needs arise.

 About Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America’s leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, our mission is to provide high-quality, affordable health care services to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 8.6 million members in nine states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal physicians, specialists and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the art care delivery and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education and the support of community health. For more information, go to: www.kp.org/newscenter.

Opportunity for A GOOD IDEA to Win $1MM In Chase Community Giving Program on Facebook

 January 15 – January 22

 Facebook: http://www.voteagi.org

 SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ — A Good Idea, a volunteer organization which is a vehicle for positive social change ideas in San Francisco, plans to give $100,000 to Haiti earthquake victims if the organization is selected as the winner of the Chase Community Giving contest sponsored by JPMorgan Chase & Co.

 “While A Good Idea focuses on homelessness within the Bay Area, we feel that it is of the utmost importance to contribute to the people of Haiti,” said Jared Paul, Founder and Executive Director of A Good Idea.

 A Good Idea was among 100 small charities out of 500,000 eligible nationwide to garner enough Facebook votes to receive a $25,000 grant as part of the Chase contest. Entering the second round of voting on Friday, January 15, A Good Idea will give $100,000 of their winnings if they are able to earn enough Facebook votes to propel them to the top spot in the contest.

 “We are grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in Haiti,” said Paul. “By connecting people in need with people that want to help, our organization has the ability to offer courage and support.”

 In two years, A Good Idea has built a strong following of volunteers and produced a string of impactful community service events in the San Francisco Bay Area. The group recently attracted national attention for its 24 Hours of Service Event, which included distribution of goods to the homeless and other civil outlets. Gaining nationwide notoriety for their work, A Good Idea was awarded the “Acts of Kindness” award from the American Red Cross and has been recognized by Mayor Gavin Newsom and the San Francisco Board of Supervisors.

 About A Good Idea

A Good Idea, a San Francisco-based nonprofit 501(c)(3), is a vehicle for positive social change ideas that connect people in need with people who want to help. A Good Idea will be bringing a fully accredited residential high school for homeless teens to San Francisco called Hope Academy of Arts & Sciences (HAAS). To learn more please visit www.agoodideasf.org.

 For more information about the Chase Community Giving Campaign, please visit http://apps.facebook.com/chasecommunitygiving/

Travelers Donate $250,000 Following Grand Circle Foundation’s Pledge to Match

 BOSTON, Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ — Alan Lewis, Chairman of Grand Circle Corporation, which owns Overseas Adventure Travel and Grand Circle Travel, today reported that $400,000 has been raised by Grand Circle Foundation and travelers to support International Red Cross relief efforts in Haiti. 

 In less than 24 hours, 2,000 travelers donated $150,000 after an email from Grand Circle Foundation invited travelers to give to the International Red Cross through the Foundation to receive a match during a given time frame.  The Foundation will match the $150,000 donations from travelers and also will give an additional $100,000 to the International Red Cross in traveler donations made following the end of the matching period. 

 ”We are simply amazed, but certainly not surprised by the speed and generosity of our older travelers,” said Lewis, whose travel companies serve some 115,000 Americans over 50 each year.  “We have always believed that we serve America’s greatest generation, and this recent outpouring from our travelers only confirms it.  We are saddened by the destruction of lives and property in Haiti and pray that our contribution will make a significant difference to those who have lost so much.”

 Lewis and his wife, Harriet, established Grand Circle Foundation in 1992 as a way to give back to the countries through which Overseas Adventure Travel and Grand Circle Travel customers travel.  Since then, the Foundation has pledged or donated more than $47 million worldwide to support the education of young people and the preservation of cultural treasures and traditions.  Currently, the Foundation supports more than 80 schools and educational institutions serving youth in more than 60 countries.

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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Two-Hour Special from Los Angeles, New York and Haiti to Air Friday, January 22 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT

 Donations to Directly Benefit Oxfam America, Partners in Health, Red Cross, UNICEF and Yele Haiti Foundation

 Facebook and MySpace Join as Social Media Partners

 NEW YORK and LOS ANGELES, Jan. 15 /PRNewswire/ — In response to the devastating earthquake in Haiti, MTV Networks is presenting “Hope for Haiti,” a global telethon to air commercial-free across ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, CNN, BET, The CW, HBO, MTV, VH1, and CMT on Friday, January 22, 2010 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT and 7:00 p.m. CT.  “Hope for Haiti” will also be made available to MTV Networks International, CNN International and National Geographic channels worldwide.

Leading the charge for “Hope for Haiti” will be George Clooney in Los Angeles, Wyclef Jean in New York City and CNN’s Anderson Cooper from Haiti. The two-hour telethon will be broadcast from New York City and Los Angeles, and will feature musical performances and celebrity appearances to be announced prior to the event, as well as live news reports from CNN.  “Hope for Haiti” will be produced by Joel Gallen, Tenth Planet Productions, in collaboration with MTV Networks and George Clooney. 

 All proceeds will be split evenly among five relief organizations currently operating in Haiti: Oxfam America, Partners in Health, the Red Cross, UNICEF and Yele Haiti Foundation (www.yele.org/text to give at 501501).  Facebook and MySpace have also signed on as official social media partners to help drive donations and tune-in to the telethon.

 About MTV Networks

MTV Networks, a division of Viacom (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), is one of the world’s leading creators of entertainment content, with brands that engage and connect diverse audiences across television, online, mobile, games, virtual worlds and consumer products.  The company’s portfolio spans more than 150 television channels and 400 digital media properties worldwide, and includes MTV, VH1, CMT, Logo, Harmonix, Nickelodeon, Nick at Nite, Nick Jr., TeenNick, AddictingGames, Neopets, COMEDY CENTRAL, SPIKE, TV Land, Atom, GameTrailers and Xfire.

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.

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.

Urges donors to call (877) 572-4484 to support relief effort

 WASHINGTON, Jan. 14 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Jimmy Jean-Louis, who plays the “Haitian” on NBC’s hit series “Heroes,” is leading a public awareness campaign to raise money for the survivors of the devastating earthquake in Haiti, the Pan American Development Foundation and the Organization of American States announced.

 ”Haitians are desperate for help, and I am glad to collaborate with PADF on its national campaign to raise relief money,” says Jimmy Jean-Louis, who will appear in television public service announcements, print ads and online.

 He is asking people to donate to PADF’s secure website: www.PanAmericanRelief.org Donations are also accepted by a toll-free number: (877) 572-4484. PADF responds to natural disasters in Latin America and the Caribbean.

 Fortunately, Jimmy Jean-Louis found out today that his parents in the Haitian capital are safe but their home was destroyed by the earthquake. Unfortunately, other family members died in the collapse.

 Jimmy is making plans to return to Haiti. PADF will provide him with a satellite telephone so he can maintain contact and provide first-hand reports on the situation on the ground.

 ”Jimmy’s kind heart and dedication to his countrymen are outstanding and we are proud to work with him on this national campaign,” says John Sanbrailo, PADF’s Executive Director.

 PADF – the natural disaster relief arm of the OAS – has more than 150 people in Haiti working on economic development, human rights and disaster relief. PADF’s office in the Dominican Republic will be the staging area for all its shipments to the island. It is sending emergency relief supplies including food, tools, telecommunications equipment and other immediate relief supplies.

 ”PADF is working with civil protection authorities, the private sector and community organizations to provide immediate and long-term assistance,” Sanbrailo says.

 As part of its response effort, PADF is coordinating with other Inter-American partners including the OAS, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture.

 At the same time, the non-profit organization is also working with major corporations to coordinate their response. In other recent natural disasters, PADF worked with DIAGEO, Chevron, Royal Caribbean International Ltd., Citi and Federal Express.

 About PADF

PADF has more than 150 people throughout Haiti working on a number of projects, including community driven development, disaster mitigation and protecting human rights.

 PADF is an independent, non-profit organization that creates public-private partnerships to assist the least advantaged people in Latin America and the Caribbean.

 Through these partnerships and as a unique affiliate of the Organization of American States, PADF creates economic opportunities, strengthens communities and prepares for and responds to natural disasters.

 Having worked in every country in the region, PADF engages community-based groups, governments and the private sector in the process of implementing appropriate solutions for sustainable development.

 In the past year, more than 5 million people in 18 countries benefited from PADF and its programs. www.padf.org

SUNBURY, Pa., Jan. 14 /PRNewswire/ — Weis Markets Inc. will begin collecting donations on behalf of the American Red Cross’s Haiti Relief and Development Fund in all of its stores on January 15.

 Starting Friday, customers can donate the amount they wish by adding to their grocery bill at check out or at the courtesy desk.  This option is available to customers paying with cash, check, and credit or debit cards. The collected money will be donated to the Red Cross’s Haiti Relief and Development Fund.

 ”We are giving our customers an easy way to help.  While the reports are still coming in, it is clear that as a result of the recent earthquake, millions of Haitians will need help in the days and weeks ahead,” David J. Hepfinger, Weis Markets’ President and CEO.  “In addition, we plan to make a significant corporate donation to the relief efforts for the victims of this earthquake.”

 Founded in 1912, Weis Markets is a Mid-Atlantic food retailer, operating 165 stores in Pennsylvania, Maryland, New York, New Jersey and West Virginia.

Will Make Direct Grant of $50,000 to American Red Cross and Match Up to $150,000 in Employee Contributions

 ISLANDIA, N.Y., Jan. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — CA (Nasdaq: CA) today announced it will contribute $50,000 to support the American Red Cross relief efforts in Haiti and match up to $150,000 in employee contributions to various relief agencies.

 ”The devastation in Haiti is massive and our thoughts go out to those affected by this tragedy,” said Bill Hughes, CA’s corporate senior vice president of global communications. “CA and its employees have a long history of providing disaster relief to people and communities in need. We are making an appeal to our employees around the world to consider donating to the relief efforts through CA’s matching gifts program and will match up to $150,000 of these donations.”

 Hughes added that the Company is setting up donation centers at its large offices around the world to collect food and clothing to send to Haiti.

 The efforts are part of the Company’s CA Together program, which helps build strong and productive global communities through a wide variety of means, including IT Partnerships, Community Grants, Employee Volunteer Programs and Matching Gifts.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090402/NYTH500LOGO)

About CA

 Nasdaq: CA), the world’s leading independent IT management software company, helps customers optimize IT for better business results. CA’s Enterprise IT Management solutions for mainframe and distributed computing enable Lean IT—empowering organizations to more effectively govern, manage and secure their IT operations. For more information, visit http://www.ca.com.

 Connect with CA

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 Trademarks

 Copyright © 2010 CA. All Rights Reserved. One CA Plaza, Islandia, N.Y. 11749. All trademarks, trade names, service marks, and logos referenced herein belong to their respective companies.

HARTFORD, Conn., Jan. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX) today pledged up to $250,000 to match employee contributions to Red Cross disaster relief efforts following this week’s devastating earthquake in Haiti.

 UTC will match 100 percent of individual contributions to Red Cross relief efforts up to $250 per employee, for a program maximum of $250,000 in matching funds. The Red Cross is raising money to pay for food, water, shelter, medical supplies and other humanitarian relief urgently needed in affected areas.

 ”UTC and its employees are saddened by the tragedy unfolding in Haiti,” said UTC Chairman & Chief Executive Officer Louis Chenevert. “The company is pleased to join with employees who are interested in contributing to help ease the suffering of those affected by this natural disaster.”

 UTC employees in the U.S. who wish to donate may do so through the American Red Cross Web site at http://american.redcross.org/supporthaiti. UTC employees living outside the U.S. may donate via the International Red Cross at http://donate.ifrc.org.

 UTC employees can apply for the company match to their contributions through UTC’s global matching gift program. Details on how to apply for the match will be communicated to UTC’s more than 200,000 employees worldwide via company intranet sites.

 United Technologies, based in Hartford, Conn., is a diversified company providing high technology products and services to the global aerospace and building industries. UTC’s products include Pratt & Whitney aircraft engines, Sikorsky helicopters, Carrier heating and air conditioning, Hamilton Sundstrand aerospace systems and industrial products, Otis elevators and escalators, UTC Fire & Security systems and UTC Power fuel cells.

OAK BROOK, Ill., Jan. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — To help the victims of Haiti’s devastating earthquake, McDonald’s Corporation today announced a donation of $500,000 USD to be matched with donations from Arcos Dorados, the company that operates nearly 1,700 McDonald’s restaurants in Latin America. These combined contributions are estimated to total at least $1 million.

 ”McDonald’s has a long legacy of being a dependable corporate neighbor in times of need, and helping the people of Haiti during this crisis is absolutely the right thing to do,” said Jim Skinner, McDonald’s Chief Executive Officer. “While we don’t have McDonald’s restaurants in Haiti, our contribution reflects our commitment to people all over the world.”

 The funds will be channeled through the International Federation of the Red Cross to be used for its disaster relief efforts.

 Along with McDonald’s $500,000 USD matching donation, the team in Latin America has developed a grassroots program to raise funds. From January 16 until January 22, all McDonald’s restaurants operated by Arcos Dorados in 19 countries will donate 50 cents from the sales of individual Big Mac sandwiches and Big Mac Extra Value Meals. Arcos Dorados estimates that these fundraising efforts will generate a minimum of $500,000.

 About McDonald’s

McDonald’s (NYSE: MCD) is the leading global foodservice retailer with more than 32,000 restaurants in more than 100 countries. Approximately 80 percent of McDonald’s restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by franchisees. Please visit our Web site at www.aboutmcdonalds.com to learn more about the Company.

 ©2010 McDonald’s

 The following trademarks used herein are owned by McDonald’s Corporation and its affiliates; McDonald’s, the Golden Arches Logo and Big Mac.

PARIS, Jan. 14 /PRNewswire/ — Haiti was struck by a powerful earthquake of magnitude 7.0, causing a large number of deaths and injuries, as well as immense material destruction.

Faced with the enormity of the catastrophe, France Televisions and Radio France have joined with the Fondation de France in making an appeal for generosity in order to bring assistance to the most vulnerable of the affected population.

 How can you make a donation?

> by cheque, made out to:

Fondation de France – Solidarite Haiti

BP 22

75008 Paris

France

> online: http://www.fondationdefrance.org (secure donation)

 All France Televisions channels, RFO radio stations and Radio France stations will be making an appeal for donations. The TV News editions are all devoting significant time to covering the disaster, with regular updates on the situation as it develops in Haiti.

 Having played a major part in collecting donations in aid of victims of the Tsunami in 2004, the Fondation de France has demonstrated its expertise and its capacity to respond to the urgent needs of victims, by:

- bringing emergency relief to those in the greatest danger

- acting to rebuild and to restart economic activity

- bringing psychological help to the people most seriously affected.

 The sums collected via “Solidarite Haiti” will be redistributed to the organisations bringing aid to the victims of the earthquake, once immediate rescue operations have been carried out. They will be targeted at assisting a return to normal life so that those most affected can regain their confidence and their dignity.

 The Fondation de France will continue to ensure financial management and the supervision of projects that have been financed, for as long as may be necessary.

 At the end of this operation, a report on the sums spent will be made public.

 About Fondation de France

 The Fondation de France was established in 1969 to encourage the growth of all forms of private philanthropy.

 The Fondation de France contributes to the development of philanthropy by enabling individuals or companies to create their own foundation under its aegis, and to benefit from its advice on management.

 The Fondation de France sets up action programs in many fields: solidarity, the elderly or disabled, and for the benefit of children. Its areas of action also cover health, medical and scientific research, culture and the environment.

CONTACT:  Fondation de France: Emilie Loubie : +33(0)1-40-26-11-40 / +33-(0)6-62-20-91-97 / [email protected]; France Televisions: Aurelie Ferton – +33(0)1-56-22-67-15 / [email protected]; Radio France: Marine Billoir – +33(0)1-56-40-16-15 – / [email protected]

Verizon Wireless Customers Can Contribute $10 to Relief Efforts by Texting ‘HAITI’ to 90999

 NEW YORK, Jan. 14 /PRNewswire/ — The Verizon Foundation has awarded a total of $100,000 in grants to World Vision and Food for the Poor to assist the victims of the devastating 7.0 earthquake in Haiti.

 In addition, the Verizon Foundation will match 1-to-1 every dollar donated by Verizon employees to the two nonprofit organizations, up to $1,000 per employee, through the Verizon disaster relief incentive program.

 ”The magnitude of the devastation in Haiti is almost unfathomable,” said Verizon Foundation President Patrick Gaston. “Verizon employees are always eager to assist those affected by tragedy, and through the disaster relief incentive program, the impact of their generosity will be doubled. Our hearts go out to all affected by the earthquake, and we will continue to explore ways to assist relief efforts.”

 Verizon Wireless customers can aid the American Red Cross relief efforts in Haiti by texting “HAITI” to 90999 to donate $10. There are no text-messaging fees, and 100 percent of each $10 donation goes to the American Red Cross.

The Verizon Foundation’s $100,000 award consists of grants of $50,000 each to World Vision and Food for the Poor.

 World Vision is dedicated to working with children, families and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice.

 Food for the Poor raises funds and provides direct relief assistance to the poor throughout Latin America and the Caribbean, usually by purchasing specifically requested materials and distributing them through organizations already operating in areas of need.

 The Verizon Foundation, supports the advancement of literacy and K-12 education through its free educational Web site, Thinkfinity.org, and fosters awareness and prevention of domestic violence.  In 2009, the Verizon Foundation awarded more than $67.5 million in grants to nonprofit agencies in the U.S. and abroad.  It also matched the charitable donations of Verizon employees and retirees, resulting in an additional $24.4 million in combined contributions to nonprofits.  Through Verizon Volunteers, one of the nation’s largest employee volunteer programs, Verizon employees and retirees have volunteered more than 5 million hours of community service since 2000. For more information on the foundation, visit www.verizonfoundation.org.

 Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE: VZ), headquartered in New York, is a global leader in delivering broadband and other wireless and wireline communications services to mass market, business, government and wholesale customers.  Verizon Wireless operates America’s most reliable wireless network, serving more than 89 million customers nationwide.  Verizon also provides converged communications, information and entertainment services over America’s most advanced fiber-optic network, and delivers innovative, seamless business solutions to customers around the world.  A Dow 30 company, Verizon employs a diverse workforce of more than 230,000 and last year generated consolidated revenues of more than $97 billion.  For more information, visit www.verizon.com.

 VERIZON’S ONLINE NEWS CENTER: Verizon news releases, executive speeches and biographies, media contacts, high-quality video and images, and other information are available at Verizon’s News Center on the World Wide Web at www.verizon.com/news.  To receive news releases by e-mail, visit the News Center and register for customized automatic delivery of Verizon news releases.

 CaribPR Wire, NEW YORK, Jan. 14, 2010: CaribPR Wire today announced it will join with partner, PR Newswire, in waiving all fees for all news releases relating to aid in rescue and recovery efforts for the Haiti earthquake crisis.

The fee waiver will be in effect through midnight on Sunday, January 17 for U.S. organizations submitting releases through the PR Newswire that communicates their efforts of assistance to media and public audiences in the United States, Latin America and the Caribbean.

“Our hearts are broken by the January 12th catastrophe in Haiti,” said CaribPR Wire founder, Felicia Persaud. “As Caribbean nationals we feel it is imperative to give back in any way we can to help our brothers and sisters in Haiti in this time of need and to assist all those angels on earth who are pitching in their own time and resources to help.”

Organizations seeking to distribute their releases can do so through https://portal.prnewswire.com/.

About CaribPR Wire

CaribPR Wire is the official Caribbean wire service of the PR Newswire. It was established in 2005 by journalist Felicia Persaud to serve the Caribbean niche market in the U.S./UK, Canada and the Caribbean region. CaribPR Wire offers over three dozen guaranteed placements for clients seeking to reach the media in this niche and also a full service comprehensive PR campaign arm in the Caribbean American marketplace. CaribPR wire is owned by Hard Beat Communications, the minority-certified news, PR and Advertising agency serving the Caribbean markets.

About PR Newswire

PR Newswire is the global leader in innovative communications and marketing services, enabling organizations to connect and engage with their target audiences worldwide. Through its multi-channel distribution network, audience intelligence, targeting, and measurement services, PR Newswire helps corporations and organizations conduct rich, timely and dynamic dialogues with the media, consumers, policymakers, investors and the general public, in support of building brands, generating awareness, impacting public policy, driving sales, and raising capital. Pioneering the commercial news distribution industry 55 years ago, PR Newswire connects customers with audiences in more than 170 countries and in over 40 languages through an unparalleled network of offices in 16 countries across North and South America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, and via unique affiliations with the leading news agencies across the globe. PR Newswire is a subsidiary of United Business Media Limited (UBM.L), a leading global business media company that serves professional commercial communities around the world. For more information, go to www.UBM.com.

PURCHASE, N.Y., Jan. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — The PepsiCo Foundation today announced it will donate $1 million to the earthquake victims in Haiti and that PepsiCo (NYSE: PEP) will provide Quaker products as well as bottled water and Gatorade for the disaster victims through its bottlers in Florida and the Dominican Republic.

 Of the $1 million, the PepsiCo Foundation has committed $500,000 for humanitarian relief to be allocated to three of its strategic partners, including the American Red Cross (to be earmarked for Red Cross partners operating in Haiti), Save the Children and Friends of the World Food Program.

The remaining $500,000 of the pledge will be used to support longer-term rebuilding efforts designed to strengthen Haiti’s infrastructure and limit significant damage from future disasters.

 About the PepsiCo Foundation

Established in 1962, the PepsiCo Foundation is the philanthropic anchor of PepsiCo, responsible for providing charitable contributions to eligible non-profit organizations. The Foundation is committed to developing sustainable partnerships and programs in underserved regions that provide opportunities for improved health, environment and inclusion. For more information visit:  http://www.pepsico.com/Purpose/PepsiCo-Foundation.aspx.

 About PepsiCo

PepsiCo offers the world’s largest portfolio of billion-dollar food and beverage brands, including 18 different product lines that each generate more than $1 billion in annual retail sales. Our main businesses – Frito-Lay, Quaker, Pepsi-Cola, Tropicana and Gatorade – also make hundreds of other nourishing, tasty foods and drinks that bring joy to our consumers in over 200 countries. With more than $43 billion in 2008 revenues, PepsiCo employs 198,000 people who are united by our unique commitment to sustainable growth, called Performance with Purpose. By dedicating ourselves to offering a broad array of choices for healthy, convenient and fun nourishment, reducing our environmental impact, and fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace culture, PepsiCo balances strong financial returns with giving back to our communities worldwide. For more information, please visit www.pepsico.com.

TEL AVIV, Israel, Jan. 14 /PRNewswire/ — One Hour Translation (https://www.OneHourTranslation.com) is assisting the victims of the Haiti earthquake and the rescue forces aiding them. 

 One Hour Translation will help overcome the language barriers between the people of Haiti and the different international organizations, and between the organizations themselves.

 One Hour Translation will translate for free up to 250 words for organizations offering aid to the victims of the Haiti earthquake and for the victims of the earthquake.

 Additional translations of over 250 words will be translated at cost price.

 To get your text translated please contact us via our Haiti aid dedicated email [email protected] or call our hotline at – +1-646-845-9597

 For additional information please go to https://www.OneHourTranslation.com/Haiti-aid

 About One Hour Translation Ltd.

 One Hour Translation is the world’s fastest professional translation service. One Hour Translation provides Fast, High Quality Expert Translation service on a 24/7 basis thanks to a community of over 8000 certified translators from all over the world.

 Contact person

Lior Libman

COO, One Hour Translation Ltd.

Phone – +1-646-845-9597

Email – [email protected]