Assemblyman Joe Giglio (R,C,I-Gowanda) today appealed to residents of the 149th Assembly District to help everyone in need along the Gulf Coast by making cash contributions to the American Red Cross. Since Hurricane Katrina’s devastating landfall three days ago, hundreds of thousands of displaced residents are without clean water, food, medical supplies and shelter.

The American Red Cross has mobilized thousands of volunteers to assist with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, is sheltering thousands of people, and is providing care and comfort to everyone affected.

"After what is being called the worst natural disaster on U.S. soil, hundreds of thousands of Americans are suffering and in desperate need of all kinds of help – and I’m sure New Yorkers are eager to answer their pleas," said Giglio. "In the days following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, people from across the nation overwhelmed New York with financial and material support. Today, as the people of the Gulf Coast struggle for food and water, we have the opportunity to demonstrate our selflessness and compassion."

Gov. George E. Pataki, on behalf of all New Yorkers, earlier deployed the New York Air National Guard’s 105th Air Wing, based at Stewart Air National Guard Base in Newburgh, to fly relief missions to aid hurricane victims in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida.

"Please consider a donation to the American Red Cross, which will bring immediate relief to all those in need," said Giglio. "The residents of the Southern Tier and Western New York are charitable and compassionate, and I know they are eager to help our friends along the Gulf Coast.

"As the anniversary of the September 11 attacks approaches, let us remember the compassionate and courageous spirit that turned a day of tragedy and destruction into a model of heroism and generosity," Giglio concluded.

For more information or to make a donation, visit the American Red Cross Web site at www.redcross.org or call the American Red Cross toll-free at (800) HELP-NOW (435-7669).