NU Online News Service, Jan.28, 11:25 a.m. EST

A matching fund has been created for Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America, Inc. employees who wish to donate money to assist Haitian earthquake victims, it was announced.

IIABA said its Trusted Choice Disaster Relief Fund, which historically has been used just for domestic disaster relief, will now have a dedicated fund for Haiti.

The "tragic consequences and enormity of need" after the Jan. 12 earthquake hit that island nation, "has prompted an outpouring of interest in helping with the relief and recovery efforts in Haiti," said Dave Evans, Trusted Choice executive director.

"To put the resources to the best and most efficient use, the money collected by our dedicated Haiti fund will be donated specifically to help the people of Haiti via recognized tax-exempt charitable organizations that are providing needed emergency services and resources in Haiti," Mr. Evans explained.

IIABA said any funds donated to the dedicated Haiti fund under the Trusted Choice Disaster Relief Fund in excess of the matched funds allocated will still go to benefit those in need in Haiti, just without a matching grant from the Trusted Choice Disaster Relief Fund.

"The Trusted Choice Disaster Relief Fund allows us to financially assist victims when and where a disaster strikes, rather than raising the funds after the fact when each second on the clock is so precious," said Bob Rusbuldt, IIABA president and chief executive officer.

Mr. Rusbuldt said, "Our disaster relief fund has distributed hundreds of thousands of dollars across the country in some of the most hard-hit areas, such as in the aftermath of 9/11, Hurricane Katrina and other significant disasters. The extreme and heart-breaking need in Haiti prompted a new use for this fund and I'm proud of our staff for their generosity."

Online tax-deductible contributions to the fund can be made at www.independentagent.com by clicking on "About Us" and then "Trusted Choice Disaster Relief Fund." Contributions via check should be made payable to the Trusted Choice Disaster Relief Fund and sent to: Attn: Lillian Carter, Trusted Choice Disaster Relief Fund, 127 S. Peyton St., Alexandria, VA 22314