(CelebrityAccess MediaWire) — Clear Channel Communications' cross-divisional relief efforts in support of the communities affected by the recent hurricanes have topped $1.2 million so far. "Many of the individuals coordinating relief efforts are local Clear Channel employees, themselves affected by the storm," said interim CEO Mark Mays. "We are very proud of the role Clear Channel's local operations across all of our divisions have played in supporting relief efforts and our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims. We are continuing to do as much as we can to add to the relief efforts."
Clear Channel Entertainment donated certain concert proceeds, merchandise and clothing directly to the Red Cross and encouraging concert-goers to do the same by offering reduced Gloria Estefan ticket prices to Red Cross contributors. All proceeds from the Tim McGraw concert presented by Clear Channel Entertainment held on August 22 were donated to The Red Cross. Clear Channel Entertainment has sent merchandise and clothing valued at over $600,000 to local churches and to The Salvation Army for distribution to people in Florida as well as affected countries in the Caribbean.
Clear Channel Outdoor has donated billboard materials to repair victims' homes and has provided free advertising space to publicize critical Federal Emergency Management Agency ("FEMA") information to local residents.
Clear Channel Radio stations across the country have been working around the clock to assist and raise money for hurricane victims. Initiatives include organizing blood drives, food and clothing drop-offs as well as providing free promotional support for various local and national relief initiatives. Clear Channel's local radio stations have also raised more than $660,000 through local radiothons and fundraisers, which have gone directly to the families in need and the Red Cross. Clear Channel Radio is also auctioning off 43 celebrity-signed guitars on www.StormAid.com, one of the largest charity auctions in radio history. The auction has entered its final week, concluding at 3 PM ET on September 20.
To offer support for hurricane victims, Clear Channel encourages donors to call the American Red Cross at 202-303-5551 or visit www.redcross.org. –Bob Grossweiner and Jane Cohen
