The Red Cross family message service (RCM) is a way for families, separated by conflict or disaster, to remain in contact. It is a free service.
The service is available to people who have been separated from their family due to conflict, internal disturbances or disasters and the usual means of communication such as post and phone are unavailable. In such anxious times, when families are no longer able to keep in contact, Red Cross can help by forwarding those all important messages that help keep families in touch.
In areas of conflict or disaster, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) or the Red Cross or Red Crescent National Society in that country will try to establish a way for families to exchange news.
The special RCM forms have space for a message and for the addresses of the sender and the receiver. The message is always unsealed to ensure safe passage in dangerous situations.
The neutrality of the ICRC helps facilitate the passage of these messages across borders and frontlines. The contents of the messages are restricted to personal and family news only, as any political, discriminatory or military related comments might jeopardise the important RCM service.
what is the cost?
The Red Cross Message service is free.
further information
For further information about the Restoring Family Links service or if New Zealand Red Cross can help out with your specific needs, please contact the family links team or phone 0800 REDCROSS (0800 733 27677).
>To view details of other programmes that aim to restore family links
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