Helping Out through Social Networking: Global Relief on Facebook
Everybody is showing their support for Haiti. Well, everybody apart from the people with malicious intent that use the incident as a means to scam people out of some money. Google for example has set up a disaster relief information site that presents news and updates about the earthquake and lists ways for people to donate money. Skype has showcased how its software application has become a vital tool in Haiti; furthermore Skype said it would give all Skype users in Haiti vouchers for $2 US of Skype Credit.
Popular social networking site Facebook is drawing attention to the fact that in times of tragedy, the web plays an important role in keeping people connected. In response to the Haiti tragedy, Facebook launched the Global Relief on Facebook page to educate and let all Facebook users know how they can help out – not only in this specific situation, but whenever a tragic situation occurs.
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“We want Global Relief on Facebook to serve as a collaborative resource for individuals, non-profits, governments and industry to raise awareness for those in need around the world. We're inviting relief organizations to be part of this effort so they can further highlight the needs in Haiti and during times of future crises. Most importantly, we hope all of you will join us by becoming a fan of Global Relief on Facebook and by continuing to support relief efforts along with your friends. By staying connected, we can all make a difference no matter where we are in the world,” commented Facebook’s Randi Zuckerberg.
Just to put things in perspective, more than 1500 status updates containing the word “Haiti” have been posted by Facebook users every minute. After the earthquake hit Haiti on Tuesday, people all over the world sought to express their solidarity. Not only that, they also wanted to help out. Through the Causes application Facebook users have already donated thousands of dollars. Through the American Red Cross, Oxfam America and Partners in Health groups hundreds of thousands of dollars have been raised in the past 24 hours alone.
Everybody is showing their support for Haiti. Well, everybody apart from the people with malicious intent that use the incident as a means to 