[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/haitidn.jpg” caption=”A group of Hamilton community leaders, including McMaster University, is organizing a telethon to support Haitian earthquake relief.”]
src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js#pub=mcmasterdailynews"> >

McMaster University's Annual Giving phone centre, located in the Downtown Centre, will be used to answer calls and accept donations. Donors can call 1-877-91-HAITI or 905-525-5252 on the day of the telethon or click here anytime to make a donation.

The two public hospitals in Haiti are affiliated with Hamilton's St. Joseph's Health system. The most up-to-date reports indicate the hospitals sustained significant quake damage and are overwhelmed with patients and suffering a critical shortage of supplies.

The 750-bed University Hospital is located in downtown Port-au-Prince. It sustained heavy damage but is still experiencing high demand from patients and the injured.

Hopital Universitaire la Paix, a 150 bed facility located outside the capital, is still standing but is overwhelmed by demand.

Hamiltonians will have an opportunity to help fund the purchase of medical supplies which are in short supply. A team of doctors from Hamilton is already on the ground in Haiti and will be helpful in determining exact need and targeting funds to help maximize impact of the telethon proceeds.

Donations will be matched through the Government of Canada's matching program. All funds donated during the telethon will go to purchase medical supplies for the Haitian hospitals.

More information will be made available as telethon plans continue to be finalized.

Stay connected