Contact: Robbie Hambright, 888-772-9634

MEDIA ADVISORY, Aug. 21 /Christian Newswire/ -- Through partnerships with several pastors and the U.S. Ambassador to Jamaica, New Directions International is prepared to respond to the devastation caused by Hurricane Dean in Jamaica. The category four hurricanes have caused widespread damage along the countryside, including the shantytowns and tin shacks that many Jamaicans call home.

As other agencies focus on providing food and water, NDI will be purchasing plastic tarps and tin sheets for temporary roofing and permanent shelter - and immediate funds are needed. It is estimated to cost only $500 to provide a new roof for a simple house.

"NDI will focus on providing shelter relief and helping people dig out," according to CEO Joseph Williams. He went on to say the situation bears resemblance to the 2004 Asian Tsunami and 2006 Hurricane Katrina when NDI responded with shelter and emergency supplies within just a few days.

For those wanting to make donations, please visit the NDI website at www.newdirections.org or call toll-free 1-888-772-9634.

Later, in the rebuilding phase, NDI will distribute backpacks full of school supplies for children through its Edu-Pack program, and aid in the rebuilding of churches and schools. More information about Edu-Pack is available at www.edu-pack.org.

New Directions International is a mission organization based in Burlington, North Carolina that responds when a natural disaster strikes any of the 25 countries where they have existing partnerships with leaders.

All gifts made to New Directions International are tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law. An independent public accounting firm audits NDI annually. Our audit report is available to you upon request. NDI is a member of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability and has been recognized by Charity Navigator and Wall Watchers as exercising the highest standards of accountability.