Angelina Jolie donates $50,000 to Balkan flood victims
Angelina Jolie is reaching out to the victims of devastating flooding in the Balkans with a $50,000 donation to the American Red Cross.
Torrential rain has hit vast areas of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia, causing flooding and landslides and forcing thousands of residents to flee their homes.
As the death toll is estimated to have hit more than 50, Jolie has
donated the huge sum to boost the relief effort across the region,
which was torn apart by conflict throughout the 1990s.
A statement from the star reads: "It is tragic that a region that
has seen so much conflict and devastation has now been struck by
natural disaster on this scale. My thoughts are with all the
families that have seen their homes and livelihoods swept and away
and lost loved ones.
"I am particularly concerned by the immediate threat to life posed
by mines and unexploded ordinance in areas that have been ravaged
by the floods in Bosnia. The damage left by the war is literally
lying just beneath the surface of the country, and the
international community must take action to help secure these
areas.
"It is inspiring see people in both countries come together to
support their neighbors and fellow citizens. It is time for all of
us to do the same, and to step up and help with the recovery. As
well as addressing immediate needs, a long-term effort will be
needed to repair homes and rebuild infrastructure. We must all be
ready to stand by these communities for the long-haul."
Jolie has strong ties to the country, having written, produced and
directed In the Land of Blood and Honey, which dealt with the
sexual violence inflicted on a woman during the Bosnian crisis.