GIFTS TO HELP REFUGEES: INTERNATIONAL RESCUE COMMITTEE PRESENTS LIST AND SAVES LIVES

 December 17, 2011 (San Diego) –This holiday season, the International Rescue Committee offers options for socially conscious, eco-friendly and financially prudent shoppers – Rescue Gifts that save and improve lives of refugees and others hit by war and natural disaster.  

San Diego County last year welcomed more refugees than any other U.S. county, making this especially meaningful here. At Rescue.org/Gifts, holiday shoppers can choose Rescue Gifts to dedicate to friends or family members, including:

• A Community Garden – $60 can equip newly arrived refugees with tools and seeds to grow vegetables at an IRC community garden in the United States
•   A Safe Delivery – $24 can ensure critical supplies for the safe delivery of a baby in a crisis zone
•    A Flock of Chickens – $30 can supply a flock of chickens that provides food and income for a family getting back on its feet
  •    A Full Year of School – $52 can provide the tuition, books and other supplies for one year of a child’s schooling in a country recovering from war
  •  Warm Blankets – $84 can deliver warmth and comfort to three families of five who’ve lost their homes in a disaster or conflict

  Shoppers can also give a Rescue Gift of clean water, a necessity in life and a critical need in every emergency. At $100, it is the gift of choice for IRC Voice, Rashida Jones: 

  “At an IRC refugee camp in Thailand, I saw that the ready availability of water transforms lives,” the star of NBC’s “Parks & Recreation,” said. “I am buying this gift for my friends this holiday season.”

  Loved ones will receive a personalized card in the mail or an eCard describing how their Rescue Gift contributes to vital supplies and services for vulnerable people. Shoppers who spend $75 or more at Rescue.org/Gifts will receive a fashionable “Rescue” T-shirt designed and donated by Threads for Thought or can have it sent as a gift.  

  While gadgets soon become obsolete and trendy clothes go out of style, Rescue Gifts have a lasting impact and are perfect options for:

  The socially conscious giver or receiver: Rescue Gifts make a real difference for people in need.

  The eco-conscious giver or receiver: Rescue Gifts have a minimal carbon footprint (zero carbon impact if the giver opts for an eCard) and there’s no need to worry about wrapping paper.

  The financially prudent shopper:  Rescue Gifts offer real value.

  The last-minute shopper: Choices can be made and eCards can be sent right up to December 24.

  About the International Rescue Committee: A global leader in humanitarian assistance, the International Rescue Committee works in more than 40 countries offering help and hope to refugees and others impacted by violent conflict and disaster. During crises, IRC teams provide health care, shelter, clean water, sanitation, learning programs for children and special aid for women. As emergencies subside, the IRC stays to revive livelihoods and help shattered communities recover and rebuild. Every year, the IRC also helps resettle thousands of refugees admitted into the United States.  A tireless advocate for the most vulnerable, the IRC is committed to restoring hope, dignity and opportunity. Visit rescue.org for more information.