MONROVIA : Relief Fund Set Up for Midwest Flooding Victims

Monrovia-based World Vision said Tuesday it has set up a Flood Relief Fund for the thousands of people suffering from what has been called the worst natural disaster ever in the Midwest.

Money collected will go toward transport and distribution of such items as rubber boots, shoes, insecticides and insect repellent, said World Vision spokeswoman Cathy Wickman. The relief supplies will be channeled through partner organizations in the affected areas, she said.

Contributions may be mailed to World Vision Flood Relief Fund, P.O. Box 1131, Pasadena, Calif. 91131. Phone contributions can be made by calling (800) 423-4200 for English and (800) 423-4216 for Spanish.

World Vision has conducted relief efforts for 43 years in more than 90 countries, the spokeswoman said. One of its recent projects was a $2.5-million relief effort for victims of Hurricane Andrew last September.

The American Red Cross also is taking donations to its Disaster Relief Fund. Checks may be mailed to the Los Angeles chapter at 2700 Wilshire Blvd., 90057.