Two devastating hurricanes within weeks of each other (and Hurrican Ivan bearing down on the Florida Keys) have left Florida residents in need of immediate material assistance.

Catholic Charities USA is collecting financial donations to help communities recover from the damage brought on by Hurricane Frances. Donations will be used to fund local Catholic Charities agencies' emergency and long-term disaster recovery efforts in the areas hit by the storm.

CCUSA, which has been commissioned by the U.S. Catholic Bishops to represent the Catholic community in times of domestic disaster, responds with emergency and long-term assistance as needed. Its Disaster Response Office connects the Church's social service agencies and disaster planning offices across the nation.

CCUSA is unable to accept contributions of food, clothing, blankets and other relief supplies.

To contribute to the Hurricane Frances disaster relief fund:

Call 800/919-9338 or visit www.catholiccharitiesinfo.org/frances.htm.

Send checks to: Catholic Charities USA, Hurricane Frances, P.O. Box 25168

Alexandria, VA 22313-9788.