An earthquake of significant and devastating magnitude struck Petrinja and surrounding regions in Croatia on December 29, 2020. Residents were injured and extensive damage to family homes, churches, educational centers, businesses, and public buildings has been reported. The injuries and displacement of people from their homes imposed by this natural disaster, coupled with the unprecedented situation caused by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, has resulted in a critical need for funding to assist the citizens of Croatia as all efforts are made to protect their safety and well-being.
Responding to the great need of our brothers and sisters in Croatia, the CFU Executive Board has initiated an Earthquake Relief Fund by earmarking $5,000.00 to start the drive and has issued immediate humanitarian appeal to our membership and friends of the CFU to assist the people of Croatia.
Below is the link for the CFU GoFundMe campaign.
CPU Humanitarian Appeal for Croatia GoFundMe
All funds received for the CFU Humanitarian Effort for Croatia will be acknowledged in the Zajedničar and directed to the Croatian Red Cross for disbursement.
If you would like to donate by check, please make checks payable to the Croatian Fraternal Union Humanitarian Fund and send your contributions to Edward Pazo, National President, Croatian Fraternal Union of America at: 100 Delaney Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15235 (can mark on your check in the memo area-Croatia Earthquake Relief Fund).
We are monitoring the situation in Croatia following the devastating earthquake that struck near the towns of Petrinja and Sisak, and caused major damage and loss of life. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who died and are injured, all those impacted, as well as with the first responders and volunteers who continue rescue operations.
We know that the widespread damage to homes, hospitals, kindergartens, churches and other buildings has left many families without water, heat, electricity and shelter. Many of these same families, in the Banovina region, also suffered greatly during the Homeland War.
As global coalition of Croatian organizations, we stand united with our homeland. In the days to come, we will identify opportunities where our help will be most meaningful. As was the case with the relief efforts during the aftermath of the earthquake in Zagreb earlier this year, all funds raised will be used to help those most affected by the earthquake. In consultation with vetted organizations in Croatia, our representatives will determine how our help will be distributed.
This fundraiser is co-organized by ACAP – Association of Croatian American Professionals Foundation, a non-profit organization registered in the USA as 501(c)(3). Donations to the ACAP Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent of the law (for U.S. residents).
Friends, so here are two worthy and well organized relief funds one can send a donation to and the NFCACF is supporting and promoting both funds at this time of need for Croatia and Croatians affected by this earthquake.