WRAL-TV5's "Project Rebuild" Raises Over a Million Dollars for Hurricane Floyd Relief

Raleigh, NC --- In response to WRAL’s “Project Rebuild” campaign, the local business community and WRAL viewers contributed a total of $1,042,071 in donations to assist the Salvation Army and American Red Cross in hurricane recovery and relief efforts in North Carolina. WRAL Online received more than $100,000 in donations from online visitors and an additional $7,000 from the sale of Hurricane Floyd videotapes.

Hurricane Floyd videotapes are still available online and proceeds benefit the Salvation Army and American Red Cross. Immediately after Hurricane Floyd, WRAL-TV aired a daylong telecast beginning Tuesday morning at 6:00 and continued throughout the day, with updates on the hour, appeals during all newscasts, and four half-hour specials at 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. WRAL’s sister station, MIX 101.5 FM simulcast the half-hour specials and solicited donations throughout the day.

"The contributions of WRAL-TV5 and their caring viewers exemplify why North Carolina is such a great state," said Jim Johnston, Red Cross State Coordinating Manager. "The needs of our neighbors to the east are immense. WRAL really demonstrated community leadership by giving generously, providing coverage and promoting donations. Thanks to the outstanding support of WRAL-TV5 and the generosity of our citizens, the Red Cross will be there, helping our neighbors recover."

"We applaud the companies and individuals who donated money and promise our continued help to the people of Eastern North Carolina. With the winter months approaching, our financial support and the support of volunteers is critical for the families affected by Hurricane Floyd,” said Bill Peterson, WRAL Vice President and General Manager.

As the holidays approach and hurricane recovery efforts continue, the need for monetary donations increases. Companies or individuals interested in making contributions should make checks payable to the Salvation Army or American Red Cross/NC Relief and mail to: