Hurricane Katrina

This terrible disaster centred in New Orleans, Louisiana, has left thousands dead and tens of thousands homeless and dispossessed. Survivors now face Third-World conditions and the threat of disease posed by rank floodwaters. What can we do to help?

Here in Toronto, more than a dozen musicians are gathering for a jazz concert to raise money for victims of Hurricane Katrina. The Sept. 25 benefit show is being organized by Kevin Clark, a former New Orleans resident who's a well-known jazz trumpeter in Toronto. Tickets for the show, taking place at the trendy distillery district, are being sold at the door for a suggested donation of $20. More info available from Jazz.fm91

Reputable charities around the world are responding to the crisis. Here is a list of how you can donate:

Canadian Red Cross - 1-800-418-1111 or www.redcross.ca

Salvation Army Canada - 1-800-SAL-ARMY or www.salvationarmy.ca

World Vision - 1-800-268-5528 or www.worldvision.ca