The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is sending almost half a million dollars in relief supplies and cash donations to assist victims of Hurricane Charley in Florida.

Relief supplies being sent to hard-hit areas such as Port Charlotte and Pine Island include food items, hygiene kits with basic necessities and additional bedding.

The National Red Cross is coordinating efforts to "re-establish family patterns and instill hope in the community," said program specialist for LDS Family Services, Doug LeCheminant in a press release.

Seven LDS Family Services practitioners from Salt Lake City arrived in Florida Friday. LeCheminant said the counselors will pay special attention to the conditions of children and relief workers. It is not unfamiliar practice for these counselors as they have responded to various humanitarian needs worldwide.

This additional church aid follows two semi-trucks loaded with emergency supplies such as water, tents, bedding, tools and roofing materials that have already arrived.

This weekend, 1,500 volunteers, including full-time missionaries and members from more than 130 local LDS congregations, will assist with cleanup efforts in Wauchula, Kissimmee, Arcadia, Port Wales, Punta Gorda and surrounding areas. They will be helping repair damage to the homes of hospital personnel to enable staff to return to work to meet the health needs of the community.

All volunteers will bring their own tools, water, food and camping supplies to fend for themselves during the cleanup efforts.