FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Elissa Ruffino (NIAF) elissa@niaf.org

(WASHINGTON, DC – November 4, 2002) The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) today established a special fund to help the families whose children perished from the recent earthquake in the town of San Giuliano di Puglia, in the region of Molise. The NIAF will kick off the fund with a $25,000 contribution from Lee Rizzuto, a long time NIAF supporter and former member of the NIAF Board of Directors.

According to NIAF Chairman Frank J. Guarini, “The Foundation extends its sincerest condolences to the victims and their families. Always remember we stand together with you. The NIAF plans to work with the Embassy of Italy in Washington, DC to identify the families who have been affected by this tragedy.”

“This tragic disaster has claimed the lives of innocent children and their teacher. Words cannot convey our deep remorse for these young victims,” said NIAF President Joseph R. Cerrell.

Twenty-six elementary school children and a teacher were crushed to death when their primary school collapsed during the earthquake, which hit 5.4 on the Richter scale. Two elderly women were also killed when their houses collapsed in the southern hilltop town. San Giuliano in Southern Italy was founded in the 10th century around a Benedictine Abby. Its approximate 1,500 residents, evacuated since the region has continued to rock with aftershocks, are camped in a make-shift village of tents on a nearby sports field.

Individuals, corporations and foundations who wish to participate are strongly urged to contact the NIAF at  All donations are tax deductible. The NIAF will take no administration fees for the distribution of the funds to the victim’s families who were directly affected by this tragic event. For more information on the NIAF’s efforts in Southern Italy, visit our web site at www.niaf.org for the latest updates.