NEWS RELEASE: Operation USA to Aid Earthquake Relief Efforts in Costa Rica

LOS ANGELES, CA (September 5, 2012)—Los Angeles-based International relief agency Operation USA announced today that it will provide emergency aid to Costa Rica as necessary following a 7.6 earthquake that struck this morning. The quake was the largest earthquake in the region in 50 years—and also affected Panama and Nicaragua. The quake was centered 38 miles off the coastal resort town of Liberia and was 25 miles underground. A tsunami warning was sounded but no apparent tsunami occurred.

There is very likely major damage to coastal towns which is still being assessed. The land area nearest the epicenter is in the heart of Costa Rica’s tourism region—the country’s leading industry. Operation USA, an international disaster relief agency, has worked in Costa Rica and throughout Central America since 1983. Operation USA staff is assessing needs at this time.

HOW TO HELP: 

Donate online at www.opusa.org, by phone at 1.800.678.7255 or, by check made out to Operation USA, 7421 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036. Text AID to 50555 and donate $10 to Operation USA’s disaster relief efforts.

Corporate donations of bulk quantities of disaster-appropriate supplies are also being requested. United and Continental air miles can also be donated to Operation USA through United Airlines Charity Miles program at www.united.com .

ABOUT OPERATION USA
Operation USA is an international relief agency that helps communities at home and abroad overcome the effects of disasters, disease and endemic poverty by providing privately-funded relief, reconstruction and development aid. Since 1979, the Los Angeles-based Operation USA has worked in 100 countries, delivering over $375 million for relief and development projects. Learn more and make secure donations at www.opusa.org.