Local Chapter Encourages Residents to Volunteer or Donate this Red Cross Month
DUBOIS – March is Red Cross Month, and the American Red Cross is asking the local community to consider being an “Everyday Hero” by volunteering time or donating funds to the local PA Heartland Chapter.
The inclement weather this winter as well as last summer has resulted in a higher-than-average number of responses for the local chapter. In June of 2013, the chapter launched an extensive relief operation after flooding affecting hundreds of people in Clearfield and Jefferson counties.
“We are still closing the gap on the funds needed to cover the costs of our flood relief efforts this past summer,” said Jason Bange, executive director of the local Red Cross. “And, because of this year’s bitter cold winter, our response to home fires in the area has increased, as well. We are truly grateful for vital support from our local community.”
Since January, the PA Heartland Chapter has responded to nearly 20 disasters, most of them house fires. This is a 63 percent increase from last year, during the same time frame.
For those community members who wish to help, but are not able to donate funds, the chapter is also looking to grow its volunteer base.
“If you are a compassionate individual who likes helping your neighbors in need, then we encourage you to reach out to us,” said Bange. “Our volunteers are the heart of the Red Cross, doing everything from disaster response to community outreach, and more.”
Various volunteer opportunities are available with the local Red Cross, including disaster responders, government liaisons, community outreach volunteers and more.
“Red Cross Month is also a great time for people to become part of the Red Cross,” Bange said. “We hope that area residents will consider joining us and being an ‘Everyday Hero.””
The Red Cross is not a government agency and relies on donations of time, money and blood to do its work. An average of 91 cents of every dollar given to the Red Cross is invested in helping people in need.
To learn more about Red Cross services, to donate to local disaster relief, or to inquire about volunteer opportunities with the PA Heartland Chapter, call 814-371-2750.