Gov. Rounds asks citizens to support American Red Cross

"Our hearts go out to the families of the victims of Hurricane Katrina," said Gov. Rounds. "The people of�South Dakota�are generous, compassionate people who are ready to help in the time of need. Along with our prayers, the most effective way to help is through cash donations so that the people in the affected states have the necessary resources for recovery."

The American Red Cross has mobilized staff and volunteers to assist with immediate needs. In 2004, the American Red Cross provided more than $80 million in hurricane relief for the four major hurricanes that hit the�United States. Early estimates are that relief efforts for Hurricane Katrina will exceed that amount.

For more information or to make a donation, please call one of the local American Red Cross Offices in�South Dakota: Rapid City:��605-342-4010; Pierre:��605-945-0400; Mitchell:��605-996- 3087; Huron:��605-352-4361; Aberdeen:��605-225-9664; Watertown:��605-886-3420; Brookings:��605-692-6772; Madison:��605-256-0550; Yankton:��605-665-7572; and Sioux Falls:��605-336-2448.

For more information, please visit www.redcross. org.