On behalf of the Asian Community  Cultural Association, Councilmember Michael Gregory presented a $4,000 relief check for Typhoon Haiyan victims to the American Red Cross at Monday’s city council meeting.

“It’s not much, but this is the first time we’ve done this, and hope to do this again next year,” said Arlene Lum, president of association.

A Chinese New Year benefit was held three weeks ago to raise money for the victims, with 50 performers and 350 people in attendance.  The event celebrated the Lunar New Year, ushering in the year of the horse. It featured the Chinese opera soprano Gao Manhua, as well as young ribbon dancers.

“We wanted to showcase local talent,” said Lum. “Asians are usually not known for performance [arts], but there are people that do that.”

Councilmember Benny Lee, who is a member of this group, added his thoughts. “It was a great event,” he said. “Soprano Gao Manhua sang with such power that you could hear a pin drop.”

Gregory accepted the check and quoted the American Red Cross’ mission statement. The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors, said Gregory.

“We harness hope,” he said. “This shows that this is a community that cares, thank you.”

Typhoon Haiyan killed over 6,000 people and injured 28,000 others when it struck the Philippines last November, according to their government.