The mainland-based Red Cross Society of China (RCSC) will donate 120 million yuan ( 17.6 million U.S. dollars) to Taiwan for reconstruction work in areas hit by the typhoon disaster last August.

Hao Linna, vice president of RCSC said this Thursday during a visit to the island.

Hao said half of the donations would be used for infrastructure building work, including houses, schools and a bridge.

Up to 15 percent of the money would be used in setting up service centers in communities, and restoring forest cover. Also, money would go to establishing disaster prevention centers and disaster relief staff training program.

When the devastating earthquake hit mainland's southwest Sichuan Province on May 12, 2008, many Taiwan compatriots made great contributions. Last year, many mainlanders sent large donations to Taiwan when a typhoon disaster struck the island.

"Giving donations show the deep care and concern for each other by both sides of the Strait," Hao said.