In the wake of the magnitude 7.0 earthquake that struck Haiti on Tuesday, the NFL is joining broadcast partners CBS, FOX and ESPN in urging football fans to contribute to disaster relief through the Red Cross.

CBS and FOX will air a 30-second NFL public-service announcement during the AFC and NFC divisional playoff games this weekend promoting earthquake relief efforts. Also, all four home teams (Colts, Chargers, Vikings and Saints) will promote the Red Cross’ text-to-give message via video board and public-address announcements. Colts ownership has kicked off their fundraising effort with a $10,000 contribution to the American Red Cross.

The Vikings are having The Salvation Army collect outside the Metrodome prior to the start of the Dallas-Minnesota game.

Several teams — particularly those with Haitian-American players on their rosters — have contacted the league office looking for direction on an appropriate response to this disaster. Approximately 24 NFL players — including Colts WR Pierre Garcon, Saints RB Pierre Thomas, Saints LB Jonathan Vilma, Chargers CB Antonio Cromartie, and Cardinals CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, all playing this weekend — are of Haitian descent.

To contribute to the Haitian earthquake relief fund, visit the Red Cross web site.

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