Utah-based groups call for aid

Along with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, other Utah-based organizations are actively engaged in the effort to assist victims of tsunamis in southern Asia.

On Thursday, officials with Globus Relief announced they had received funding to send a shipment of supplies sometime next week. Liquid vitamins will be sent, along with protein supplements and disposable medical supplies.

The local nonprofit is seeking $8,000 in donations for a second shipment in the coming days. For more information, visit www.globusrelief.org.

"Every item on this shipment is desperately needed in the destroyed cities," said John Pingree, president of Globus Relief. "Medical supplies for the injured are already in great demand."

Salt Lake City officials, along with the Downtown Alliance and Red Cross, are also asking for donations at First Night celebrations tonight. Seven donation booths will be open from 7 to 11 p.m. throughout the celebration area. Cash and checks will be accepted. Pledges will be taken for credit card donations.

"The need for assistance is unprecedented," said Salt Lake City Mayor Rocky Anderson in a statement. "By acting quickly we can help save the lives of millions of people, as well has helping them rebuild their communities."

For a list of agencies sending aid to the tsunami victims, go to deseretnews.com/tsunami.html