Mayor Adam Bradley called a meeting of members of the clergy, several non-profit organizations, and city staff Thursday to determine how White Plains can assist the victims of the devastating earthquake in Haiti. The joint effort willl be referred to as "White Plains Cares."

"Given the magnitude of this disastrous earthquake, one that has affected the poorest nation of the Western Hemisphere, coupled with the close connections of numerous White Plains residents to Haiti; I feel compelled to offer the help of the City of White Plains and facilitate relief efforts. By joining together with businesses, religious and community organizations we have the opportunity to make a major impact on mobilizing the efforts," said Mayor Bradley.

 At this time, money is the most immediate commodity needed. Knowing that there was an urgent need for medical attention because the earthquake destroyed almost every hospital in Haiti, the group agreed that "Doctors Without Borders" http://doctorswithoutborders.org or 1-888-392-0392 (24-hours a day, 7 days a week) or by mail at Doctors Without Borders USA, P.O. Box 5030, Hagerstown, MD 21741, is an organization where they would like to see contributions made.

 Additional organizations will be added to the donor list shortly.

 When Haiti is able and ready to accept hard goods, the committee will organize the collection of food, clothing, and other supplies and aid in its distribution. The city's website will contain information for all who are interested www.cityofwhiteplains.com