Iowans of Asian descent have created a special disaster fund to help tsunami victims. See Rodari works at Bankers Trust — where the fund has been created — and he’s also a native of Thailand. Rodari migrated to the U.S. 32 years ago, but he still has family in Thailand, all of whom are safe because they live in a city that’s quite far away from where the tsunami hit. “The devastating message that I’ve been (getting) from my family back home — it’s just so sad,” Rodari says. Rodari urges Iowans who know someone who is a native of the affected region — “or a friend of a friend of a friend” from the area — then “please call them and share with them your concern” and your willingness to help. Rodari expects a big response from Iowans. Rodari says Iowans are very generous at heart. He says cash donations are needed the most. And your donation to the “Iowa Cares: Asian Tsunami Disaster Fund” is tax-deductible. Rodari says this disaster is worse than a war because it was not predicted and so devastating. “We just don’t know how bad it is,” Rodari says. He describes the situation in his homeland and other affected areas as unbearable. You can drop off donations at any Bankers Trust location or mail your checks to the Iowa Cares: Asian Tsunami Disaster Fund, 150 E. Euclid Ave., Des Moines, IA 50313. For more information, you can e-mail aaciowa@yahoo.com or call 515-283-2388.
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