January 19, 2005

The Portland Trail Blazers collected donations along with Mercy Corps to help survivors of the Indian Ocean tsunami on January 1at the home game vs. the Golden State Warriors and on January 7 at the home game vs. the Miami Heat.

In response to the devastation resulting from the tsunami in Southeast Asia, the Portland Trail Blazers presented Portland-based Mercy Corps with a donation of $65,000 during ceremonies at the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on January 19.

Fans attending the January 1 and January 7th home games were encouraged to make cash donations to Mercy Corps. Coupled with tonight’s $65,000 contribution from the Trail Blazers’ team and coaching staff, these collective efforts on behalf of Mercy Corps, brought the total contributions to nearly $90,000.

Trail Blazers Director of Player Programs, Darnell Valentine, along with Paul G. Allen made the check presentation to Bob Newell, Mercy Corps Chairman of the Board during the Hardwood Classics Night match-up between the Trail Blazers and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Donations from the general public will assist Mercy Corps' emergency response to the more than 1.5 million people displaced and the tens of thousands more who were affected by this tragic disaster.

Fans not attending either game can also donate online by visiting www.mercycorps.org.

Click here for more information about the local Tsunami Relief Efforts