Earthquake in China, largely ignored here

This is courtesy of Linda Cortright, editor and publisher of Wild Fibers Magazine (yes, I seem to be spending today passing on other people's words) (and here are some photos Linda had taken before the earthquake):

...I have just gotten off of Skype with a man in Yushu Province, China. A severe earthquake struck his “backyard” several hours ago and has initially been categorized as a magnitude of 6.9-7.1. We chatted very briefly as he had to leave to take water and supplies to the WEAVERS and SPINNERS who create his yak yarn...

I have just spoken with my Clay Goforth at Jade Tree, the company that creates the yak yarn from Yushu where the earthquake hit. This is what he had to say:

The latest news is that 90% of the homes in Yushu have been destroyed. The casualties have risen to 400 confirmed and an estimated 200-400 more are presumed. The Chinese Government sent 3,000 troops in to help dig people out whom are still trapped. The airport is shut down so the only way in or out is through one road coming from Xining and it is a 14-16 hour drive to get any kind of medical teams in or evac people out.
I don’t know your realm of influence, but if you could reach out to people you know for support and donations, as money will be a huge commodity that would be great.

They can send donations to:
Yushu Earthquake Relief
c/o First Asia Development
PO Box 8668
Fayetteville AR 72703

This is the non-profit organization through which the Jade Tree Project does its fundraising for community development work in Tibet. I am president of the non-profit, so if anyone has any questions, send them my way and I will be happy to answer anything.

Thanks Linda,

Here is the link he just sent me to donate as well: http://jadetreeproject.blogspot.com/