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New York, NY; December 27, 2004---The American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) has set up a special emergency mailbox to collect funds for relief efforts following Sunday's earthquake and subsequent tidal waves in South Asia.

These events have caused mass devastation and loss of life. Funds raised will help various agencies on the ground provide emergency supplies for the hundreds of thousands of people who have been left homeless due to flooding and structural damage.

"This is one of the most catastrophic natural disasters we've ever seen," said Steven Schwager, JDC's executive vice president. "Our 90-year-old organization has an outstanding track record of providing timely relief in the wake of disasters worldwide. Our prayers go out to the people of South Asia; on behalf of the North American Jewish community, JDC will do everything it can to help them in their time of need."

Contributions can be made by credit card via JDC's website: http://www.jdc.org/news_press_122704.html

via phone: 212-687-6200 ext. 851, or by check payable to:

"JDC: South Asia Tsunami Relief"
Box 321
847A Second Avenue
New York, NY 10017

JDC serves as the overseas arm of the North American Jewish community providing relief, promoting Jewish renewal, rebuilding Jewish communities in 60 countries around the world, and helping Israel address its most urgent social challenges. JDC's programs are supported primarily by contributions to the annual campaigns of the Jewish Community Federations throughout North America in partnership with United Jewish Communities (UJC).