April 2, 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Suzanne Baroody

Phone: 800-225-8550

FAX: 912-265-6170

THOUSANDS OF REFUGEES FROM KOSOVO

Brunswick, GA, -- The final count of displaced persons could reach into the hundreds of thousands in the largest mass exodus of people in Europe since the Bosnian war earlier in this decade. The majority of the new arrivals are women and children and the aged. Many report being forcably ejected from their homes, experiencing the horror of all they own being burned to the ground.

"There are rivers of refugees pouring out of Kosovo. There is absolutely no access into Kosovo from any means and Pristina is completely closed off, no electricity and (they are) running out of food," said Perter Kuzmic, MAP's (Medical Assistance Programs)contact who recently returned to Croatia from Macedonia. "Only women, children and the elderly are able to travel. The men are in hiding, fearful for their lives to travel and hoping that they are not found by the Serb army or militia groups."

Because of this tremendous need, MAP is preparing two initial shipments of critical medicines: topical and oral antibiotics, analgesics, nutritional supplements and basic hygiene items. One shipment of approximately $680,000 is slated for airlift to World Vision, Canada's offices in Podgorica, Montenegro. The second shipment valued at approximately $1.1 million, is scheduled to be sent to Mercy Corp, in Skopje, Macedonia. This shipment is due for delivery the second week in April.

"We are calling upon the generosity of the American people once again," said Suzanne Baroody, MAP spokesperson. "Due to the demands of Hurricane Mitch, our financial resources are severely depleted. Please help now."

MAP International is a non-profit relief and development agency located in Brunswick, GA., with regional offices in Latin America and Africa. Every $1.00 donated provides at least $15.00 in medicines and medical supplies. Only 1.4% of total revenue is used for administration and fundraising. Contact MAP at 800-225-8550, or write MAP International, 2200 Glynco Parkway, Brunswick, GA 31525.

Contact: Suzanne Baroody, Director of Public Relations

MAP International

2200 Glynco Parkway

Brunswick, GA 31525

800-225-8550

FAX 912-265-6170