Dutch aid for Haiti steadily growing   

By The Holland Times Friday 15 January 2010, 12:01

The Dutch have donated 1.2 million euros in aid funds to the victims of the devastating earthquake in Haiti. The Samenwerkende Hulporganisaties (Cooperating Aid agencies, SHO) announced the growing amount on Friday.

Donations sent to Giro 555 began Wednesday to much enthusiasm.  “I am very pleased that the Dutch speak their hearts and give generously to this terrible disaster,” said SHO chairman, Farah Karimi. “It will take a lot of money to get the Haitians on their feet again, so I hope that people continue to Giro 555!”

It is still unclear whether there will be a television fundraiser for Haiti, something that is expected to be announced in the coming weeks. The need for TV action depends on the progress of the current collection, says a SHO spokesperson. If Giro 555 continues as it is, a broadcast initiative may not be needed.

The SHO was also instrumental in raising aid for the 2004 tsunami. The organisation raised 730,000 for relief in that devastated region.