A concert broadcast live on television in Hong Kong raised more than HK$26 million (US$3.3 million) for The Salvation Army's earthquake and tsunami response programme in Japan. The event was organized by internationally famous film star Jackie Chan and featured artists well known in Hong Kong and around the world.
The three-hour concert, called 'Artiste 311 Love Beyond Borders', took place at Hong Kong's Victoria Park. Stars taking part included actor and singer Andy Lau, actor Donnie Yen and singers from Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea and China. American singer Lionel Richie performed from Australia via satellite link, singing 'Say You, Say Me'.
Hong Kong-born Jackie Chan told entertainment website Hollywood Reporter why he decided to arrange the concert: 'For years my Japanese fans have made a great effort to raise money for my charity, to build schools in China and to help the victims of the [2008] Sichuan earthquake. It's time for me to return the favour and do what we can to help.'
He personally paid for the plane tickets and accommodation for all the overseas performers.
All profits from the concert will be passed on to The Salvation Army. More than 300 Salvationists and Salvation Army staff from its Hong Kong and Macau Command took telephone donations during the event.
The exact use of the funds is still being decided but it is likely that much of the money will be used to supply emergency relief packs – including a 15-day supply of food and water, personal care and hygiene products and blankets – to people in areas affected by the earthquake, tsunami and by problems at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power station.
Captain Laura Van Schaick, territorial gender equity officer, recently sat down with General Brian Peddle (Rtd) to discuss the ongoing work of gender equity within The Salvation Army—both internationally and here at home. Their conversation reflects on the progress made, challenges encountered and their hopes for the future, and highlights the importance of recognizing and empowering the gifts and leadership of women and men across the Army.
On September 11, 2001, two airplanes hit the World Trade Center in New York City, while a third plane crashed into the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., killing almost 3,000 people and injuring thousands more. With U.S. airspace closed following the terrorist attack, 38 airplanes landed in Gander, N.L., where Salvationist Claude Elliott was mayor.
The former mayor of Gander, N.L., a passenger who landed in Gander, and Salvationists who responded at Ground Zero remember The Salvation Army's response to 9/11.
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