Search the Internet          Tips  Sites: Finance, Investment

Silicon Valley groups to raise $25 million for quake victims

More than 25 Silicon Valley organisations have joined hands to raise $25 million for the Gujarat earthquake victims.

The business, cultural, religious, civic and charitable organisations met in Santa Clara, California, to form United Community Appeal for India (UCA) and pledged more than $2 million on the spot.

"The needs are staggering," said Kailash Joshi, president of The Indus Entreprenuer (TiE), a UCA constituent. "Even if we raise $25 million, it will be a drop in the bucket when compared to the devastation in Gujarat," he added.

Appealing for prompt response from people, UCA said as the country struggles to save the lives and rebuild hope for the people, speed in delivering support, financial and otherwise, is of essence.

"We are pleased to see how swiftly so many organisations have come together for this emergency effort," CEO of Providian Bank Sailesh Mehta said.

"Collectively, we can mobilise the resources of the entire community. People understand the nature of damage an earthquake can create. So we believe our appeal will receive considerable interest," he said.

The disbursement of funds collected by UCA will be conducted by an advisory board in conjunction with CFSV.

Established humanitarian organisations like Red Cross, World Vision, BAPS International and others will be given due consideration, said president of American Association of Physicians from India Dr S Ramachandran.

The Complete Coverage | List of earthquake sites

Tell us what you think of this report