7 Jun 2003

600 families affected by American Samoa storm

9:17 am on 7 June 2003

The Red Cross in American Samoa now estimates nearly 600 families are in need of assistance because of damage caused by the flooding and mudslides last month which killed four people.

The Red Cross's Hawaii based director of disaster services, Glenn Lockwood, they are providing assistance with both cash grants to households and families, and also bedding, clothing and storage facilities.

The Red Cross is still seeking financial assistance from the general public and the business community.

It also needs another 30 volunteers to help it carry out its work.

Meanwhile, the US Federal Emergency Management Agency has yet to declare American Samoa a major disaster area.

Such a declaration would allow the territory to receive federal assistance.

Governor Togiola Tulafono said damage from the flooding is in excess of 50 milloin US dollars.