The China Red Cross Society (CRCS) has so far received donations
worth 20 million yuan (about US$2.4 million), to support the fight
against severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).
CRCS vice-president Wang Lizhong made the announcement at a
donation ceremony held in Beijing Thursday to mark World Red Cross
and Red Crescent Day and the 140th anniversary of the International
Red Cross Campaign.
The ceremony also aimed to call on people from all walks of life to
jointly combat SARS, Wang said.
Wang said the CRCS, as a non-governmental organization extending
humanitarian aid, has played an active role in combating SARS.
Since hotlines were announced on April 28, CRCS staff have been
working round the clock, answering questions from the public
concerning donations and SARS prevention, Wang said.
In
the meantime, the CRCS called on the Red Cross at all levels to
coordinate with government administrations to receive and extend
donations in accordance with the Law of the People's Republic of
China on the Red Cross Society.
At
the ceremony, the CRCS commended 16 enterprises and companies which
have made great contributions.
CRCS 24-hour hotlines: 65139999, 65135933
Bank for donations: China Industrial and Commercial Bank, Dongsinan
Branch in Beijing
Account number: 02000010090144132-52
(Xinhua News Agency May 8, 2003)