GM Chips In for Shattered Haiti

American manufacturer GM announced yesterday the approval of an immediate $100,000 contribution to the American Red Cross relief fund to be send in the aid of Haiti, devastated after the 7.0 quake which struck on January 12. GM also announced it has set up a special web-link to be used by employees who want to make their own contribution.

"As one of the world's largest car companies, doing our part to contribute aid to Haiti is not about business but our obligation to our fellow man," Ed Whitacre, GM interim CEO said in a release. "There is remarkable compassion among GM employees, and I know that same spirit will make a difference in helping the Haiti relief effort."

Following the biggest earthquake which hit Haiti in the last 200 years, the island is on its knees, with the latest estimates pointing to a death toll which may exceed 100,000.

"It's the worst I've ever seen," Bob Poff, Salvation Army director of disaster services was quoted as saying by CNN. "It's so much devastation in a concentrated area. It's going to take days, or weeks, to dig out."

The international community scrambled throughout yesterday to reach out and help what is considered the poorest nation in the Western hemisphere. The US, China, and EU are sending search and rescue teams, medical aid, food and water for the some 3,000,000 people affected by the quake.

A list of the humanitarian agencies which have offices in Haiti is available by following this link, should you want to lend a hand as well.