It's been a busy couple of days for our Chapter as we've been in Disaster Mode.  The November Nor'Easter brought rain, wind and flooding to our jurisdiction, displacing families.  Our disaster services volunteers have worked hard transporting supplies, supporting shelter operations and assessing damage in our community. 

 

The Nor'Easter is proof that it doesn't take a large scale hurricane event to disrupt lives and displace people from their homes.  This event exemplifies the importance of preparedness and the good work of the American Red Cross during response efforts. 

 

I encourage each of you to consider three things:

 

1.  Prepare.  Make sure that you and yours are Be Red Cross Ready.  Get a kit.  Make a plan.  Be informed.  We'd be happy to share tips on how you can best prepare your family for an emergency.  When faced with a disaster, having a kit on hand with supplies, medications, money and other "creature comforts" can make such a difference if you have to quickly evacuate or shelter in place.  Ensuring that your family knows what to do during a disaster or emergency situation will help ensure the best possible response.  Remain informed so that you know what may happen during a disaster or emergency and how you can help.  For more information, please click here.

 

2.  Get Involved.  The need for volunteers is always great and we need support in every disaster services capacity.  The time to train is NOW, so that you can be there to help, when help is needed.  Check the side menu for a listing of upcoming disaster services courses.  Are you new to disaster services?  Join us for our next Fulfilling Our Mission course on Thursday, December 10th at 6pm (Chapter training room) to get started. (Call Dawn to register.)

 

3.  Give.  As a non-profit organization, we need your support!  Please help us ensure that we have the funding needed to respond.  For your convenience, you can donate online (link in side menu).

 

Please visit www.redcross.org for information about our organization's Gift of the Month (and other)giving programs.

 

To all 52 of our volunteers who supported the Nor'Easter disaster relief effort...thank you!  You inspire us!

 

And to all of our volunteers...thanks for keeping us strong.