The founder of the Guatemala Relief Fund has appealed to the public to assist hurricane-ravaged Guatemala and Mexico by shipping containers of clothes, shoes and toys for immediate distribution.

Norma Regina Thomson said she normally sends a container to Latin America at Christmas time, however, after the devastation to the area from Hurricane Stan, the need is more urgent.

"With the many scenes of the damage caused by Hurricane Stan, I am urged to send out this appeal letter earlier than usual to request your financial support to send aid in the form of used clothes and shoes to this suffering country," Ms Thompson said.

The container will be parked at Christ Church, Warwick from Friday, October 28, however, Ms Thomson has also offered to collect items.

"Should you or your staff wish to donate such items, I will personally collect them," she said. "Those items which are greatly appreciated range from children's or adults' clothing, bed linen, towels, strollers, baby clothes."

Over 1,000 people were killed across Guatemala from torrential rains associated with Hurricane Stan earlier this month and another 133 people were killed in El Salvador, Mexico, Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Honduras. Many thousands of others have lost their homes and belongings.

"During the past ten years, Bermuda and the generosity of our people have supported me in sending a container of used clothes for arrival just before Christmas," Ms Thomson said. "I have received financial support from companies and individuals, which has allowed me to accomplish such a wonderful task.

"I am once again appealing to you and the business community for financial support."

She said financial donations will be used to offset the cost of shipping the aid.

"As the container is due to leave Bermuda on or about November 1, please call me at 232-2321 before October 29 to ensure adequate time for collection," she said.

Financial donations can be made by cheque to ? The Guatemala Relief Fund, P.O. Box HM 501, Hamilton HM CX.