Arlington, VA (August 14, 2008) -- As the violence between Russia and Georgia escalates into an international crisis, so does the need for humanitarian aid to the tens of thousands of displaced citizens of South Ossetia; the Moscow-backed breakaway region that has been the center of conflict between the two warring nations.

The Center for International Disaster Information (CIDI) is urging all those who wish to help to donate cash, as an alternative to in-kind gifts and other commodities, to provide immediate and effective assistance to the growing number of civilians that are being forced to flee their homes and seek shelter in remote areas without electricity or water.

According to a BBC report, some 100,000 people are estimated to have been displaced by the conflict, which has created huge tensions within the international relations arena as foreign aid experts struggle to find a solution to this humanitarian disaster. Refugees have fled South Ossetia, many of them seeking shelter in the Russian province of North Ossetia. However, with Russian officials targeting Georgian communications and lines of supply, the need for the fastest, most effective means of response remains absolutely critical.

"This is a terrible tragedy for all those involved, but the public can help to ease the burden on the thousands of innocent civilians that remain without shelter by donating cash, rather than in-kind donations, to a reputable, on-site relief agency," said Suzanne Brooks, Director of CIDI. "It is crucial that the local relief agencies have all the necessary resources to best aid the people of Georgia. The fastest and best way to provide this assistance is through cash donations."

Individuals and organizations interested in making contributions to help Georgian refugees can get more information by visiting CIDI's Web site at www.cidi.org. Additionally, interested donors can visit www.interaction.org to obtain a list of credible responding agencies for international emergencies and www.give.org to get valuable information on making informed decisions when supporting charities.

About CIDI

CIDI is based in Arlington, Virginia, and was created in 1988. The Center is funded by the United States Agency for International Development's Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance. CIDI provides individuals, groups, embassies and corporations with information and guidance in support of appropriate international disaster relief efforts. The organization works with a variety of partners to channel the public's energy and desire to help to achieve maximum impact. By reaching out to the American public and the private sector, CIDI helps to promote activities and donations that will do the most good for disaster victims around the world. For more information about CIDI and helping international victims, please visit www.cidi.org or call 703-276-2942.