News and Events

Haiti Relief Efforts Your Donations at Work…

The situation in Haiti remains desperate, but support from the American public is making it into the hands of survivors and more help is on the way.  

Red Cross teams from other nations are delivering clean drinking water to survivors gathering in six different communities.

In addition to the first aid posts, outreach teams are also aiding the injured in nearby camps. Red Cross responders from six countries are treating injuries and triaging people for surgery at hospitals and medical centers in Port-au-Prince, Carrefour and Jacmel.

Planes and trucks carrying Red Cross humanitarian assistance are arriving in the region every day, delivering much needed materials such as medical supplies, tarps, blankets, hygiene items, buckets, shelter supplies and kitchen sets. So far, more than 500 tons of Red Cross aid has been mobilized.

The American Red Cross is providing approximately 3 million pre-packaged meals in partnership with the World Food Program in Haiti.

In the days ahead, the American Red Cross will provide supplies for temporary shelters in Haiti. Kits, containing wood, tarps, rope and tools, as well as tents and blankets, will be made available for an initial 20,000 families.

Approximately 100 American Red Cross Creole-speaking volunteers will be aboard the USNS Comfort to translate for patients.

In Florida, American Red Cross chapters are providing a variety of support services as citizens return to the United States from Haiti. These services may vary slightly depending on the individuals’ needs when they arrive, but may include shelter, food, emotional support, basic first aid, comfort kits and referrals to other community services.

American Red Cross Rushing Aid to Help Communities Affected by Earthquake in Haiti

Wednesday, January 13, 2010 — The American Red Cross continues to rush aid to Haiti in support of the massive relief effort underway in response to yesterday’s devastating earthquake.

"With daylight upon us, reports indicate widespread damage in Port au Prince, with continuing aftershocks," says Nicole Valentine, spokesperson for the American Red Cross of Central MA. "Our colleagues in Haiti are seeing immediate need for food, water, temporary shelter, medical services and emotional support. The Red Cross is concentrating our efforts to expedite the delivery of these items to Haiti, as well as the funds needed to support this massive relief effort." In addition to committing an initial $1,000,000 to the effort, the American Red Cross has made available all of the relief supplies from its warehouse in Panama which would provide for basic needs for approximately 5,000 families. Six Red Cross disaster management specialists have deployed to Haiti, joining a group of highly trained volunteers and staff who are already working on scene.

The American Red Cross is not accepting volunteers to travel to Haiti, and encourage those who would like to help to consider volunteer at the local level by calling 508-595-3730.

"At this time, what we need the most are financial contributions – whether by check, online or by phone," Valentine stated. "Items such as clothes and shoes are not helpful right now because there is nowhere to store them, no one to sort them, and it would be difficult to transport the items to Haiti. A financial contribution will allow the Red Cross to focus our funds on the direct needs of those impacted by the devastating earthquake."

Safe and Well Inquiries

For inquiries about relatives living and who have citizenship in Haiti, please be patient and call repeatedly until the lines clear or contact other family members who live nearby. Telephone, Internet and other communication lines are often disrupted in times of disaster. People trying to locate U.S. citizens living or traveling in Haiti should contact the U.S. Department of State, Office of Overseas Citizens Services, at 1-888-407-4747 or 202-647-5225.

How to Help:

You can help the victims of countless crises around the world each year by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross International Response Fund, which will provide immediate relief and long-term support through supplies, technical assistance and other support to help those in need. Donations to the International Response Fund can be sent to the American Red Cross, International Relief Fund, 2000 Century Drive, Worcester, MA 01606. In addition, donors may text "HAITI" to "90999" and a donation of $10 will be given to the Red Cross to help with relief efforts.

Gifts that save the day…

In this season of hope, give gifts in the name of your loved ones and provide help and hope to families in crisis all year long.

With the holidays fast approaching, many of us search for a meaningful gift. The Red Cross is excited to share with you the very first American Red Cross holiday giving catalog – a new way to shop this holiday season.

Wreaths wither, sweaters go out of style, but honoring your loved ones by sending a Red Cross gift in their name is the perfect way to share the true meaning of the season. The purchase of each gift item is a fully tax-deductible contribution to the overall mission of the American Red Cross. A gift card is provided to you to let your loved ones know that gift was given in their name. Here are some examples from our on-line 2009 Holiday Giving catalog.

• Within hours of when disaster strikes, the Red Cross is there, providing meals and safe shelter. You can help stock our feeding trucks and kitchens this holiday season and make sure no child or family goes hungry when disaster strikes.

• In the aftermath of disaster, children and families can be at risk of exposure and hypothermia. A warm blanket helps provide a sense of security and safety.

• You can give a disaster victim a much-needed personal comfort kit which includes shampoo, soap, deodorant, a toothbrush and other essential personal care and hygiene supplies.

• There’s no substitute for hearing the voice of a loved one deployed overseas. You can make sure that active duty service members and wounded warriors can get in touch with family and friends and make being away just a little more bearable.

Yes, the season of giving is upon us and you can create your own family tradition by choosing gifts that truly have the power to save the day all year long. For more gift ideas, visit www.redcross.org and chose to make a difference for children and families in crisis.

Recent Home Fires Displace Families in Nine Communities

Red Cross Urges Home Fire Safety

Worcester, MA, October 27, 2009 - A recent rash of local fires has left an additional seventeen families homeless in central and north central Massachusetts over the past six weeks . Volunteers from the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts have responded to 14 fires within this short period of time. In addition to responding to fires, Red Cross volunteers were requested to provide canteen services to nearly one hundred emergency officials on the scene of search for a missing Townsend man in September.

Fires in the towns of Dudley, Gardner, Leicester, Leominster, Marlborough, Princeton, Sturbridge, Sutton and Worcester have displaced 62 residents, six of which destroyed single family homes. Red Cross volunteers interviewed the clients on the scene of each incident to determine their needs on a case by case basis. Assistance to these clients ranged from a variety of services, including funds for food, clothing and medical prescription co-payments, temporary housing, infant supplies, eye glass replacement and mental health counseling. Follow-up casework included rental assistance and referrals for furniture and permanent housing.

"As we approach the winter months, we are urging residents to review simple fire safety tips in an effort to avoid tragedy in the home," stated Nicole Valentine, director of emergency services and public affairs for the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts. "Often times, when we are on the scene interviewing clients, the first thing they say is ‘I never thought this would happen to me’. Fires and disasters in the home can affect anyone at anytime, and although the information may seem simple and redundant, it is crucial for people to review these tips at least once a year."

• Keep all sources of fuel (paper, clothing, bedding, and carpets or rugs) at least three feet away from all heat sources when cooking, or using alternative heating like a space heater.
• Don’t leave the kitchen while you’re frying, grilling or broiling food, and don’t leave home if you’re simmering, baking, boiling or roasting food.
• Keep matches and lighters away from and out of reach of children.
• Never use a cooking range or oven to heat your home.
• Turn off portable space heaters every time you leave the room or go to sleep.
• Have wood and coal stoves, fireplaces, and chimneys inspected annually by a professional, and cleaned if necessary.

• Once you are out, stay out! Call the fire department from a neighbor’s home.
• If you see smoke or fire in your first escape route, use your second way out. If you must exit through smoke, crawl low under the smoke to your exit. If you are escaping through a closed door, feel the door before opening it. If the door is warm, use your second way out.
• If smoke, heat, or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with the door closed. Signal for help using a brightly colored cloth at the window. If there is a telephone in the room, call the fire department and tell them where you are.

Red Cross Helping American Samoa Tsunami Victims

Families Urged to Utilize Safe and Well Website

Thursday, October 1, 2009 - The American Red Cross is on the ground in American Samoa where a tsunami swept across the island after a powerful earthquake hit the South Pacific.

After Tuesday's 8.0 magnitude earthquake and resulting tsunami, a significant portion of American Samoa is without power or water. Damage is widespread. Red Cross has dozens of volunteers already providing food and supplies to those on the island. A team of 50 volunteers is being sent in to supplement the efforts of the local Red Cross team. The Red Cross has a warehouse on American Samoa supplied with cots, flashlights, and cooking and clean-up supplies, and will be sending in additional supplies as quickly as possible.

"Red Cross teams were activated as soon as notice of the event came to our attention and we are providing assistance as quickly as we can, deploying both human and material resources," said Nicole Valentine, spokesperson for the American Red Cross of Central MA. "Our first priority is to provide food, water and needed supplies."

Getting information out of the island is very slow at this time. Calls from concerned family members are beginning to come into the local Red Cross in Worcester. The Red Cross urges those who have been able to contact loved ones on American Samoa register them with Safe and Well.

"Safe and Well is the best way to share information about their status. People can register information about loved ones on the Red Cross Safe and Well Website at www.redcross.org. If they do not have internet access, they can call 1-800-REDCROSS to register their loved ones." Stated Nicole Valentine, spokesperson for the American Red Cross of Central MA. "The information will let other loved ones know about the well-being of those on the island. Please note - Safe and Well works only on American Samoa. The service will not work on Samoa."

The Red Cross pre-positions supplies and disaster equipment to be able to rush relief services into affected areas when disaster strikes. Since 1997, members of the Red Cross Annual Disaster Giving Program (ADGP) have pledged donations in advance of major disasters to ensure the Red Cross has the ability to respond immediately when needed. This year, members have provided more than $20 million in funding for the Disaster Relief Fund.

RED CROSS-ADD ONE
ADGP members include Altria Group, Inc., American Express, AXA Foundation, ConAgra Foods, FedEx Corporation, GE Foundation, The Home Depot Foundation, John Deere Foundation, Kimberly-Clark Corporation, Merck & Co., Inc., Morgan Stanley, Nationwide Insurance Foundation, Raytheon, Ryder Charitable Foundation, State Farm, State Street Foundation, Target, The TJX Companies, Inc., UnitedHealthcare, and UPS.

"Thanks to the generosity of our Annual Disaster Giving Program members, we are able to mobilize human and material resources at a moments notice to provide lifesaving services," said Jeffrey Towers, chief development officer at the American Red Cross. "These funds, coupled with the support of the American public, are critical during disasters and enable the Red Cross to rush immediate relief to disaster victims before the first donation has been given."

American Samoa, a group of seven islands about 2,300 miles southwest of Hawaii, is a United States Territory. American Samoa and the independent country of Samoa make up the Samoan group of islands in the center of Polynesia. According to news reports, four tsunami waves about 15 to 20 feet high came ashore on American Samoa after the earthquake in the South Pacific.

Your financial support will help the Red Cross respond to disasters like this situation in the Samoan islands. You can make a donation by calling 1-800-REDCROSS (1-800-733-2767) or (1-800-257-7575 (Spanish), or visiting redcross.org, and choosing whether to donate to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund or American Red Cross International Response Fund.

Help people affected by disasters like the recent earthquake and floods by donating to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. On those rare occasions when donations exceed Red Cross expenses for a specific disaster, contributions are used to prepare for and serve victims of other disasters. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for disasters and provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance to victims of all disasters. Call 1-800-REDCROSS (1-800-733-2767) or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013. Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting redcross.org.

Prepare Your Employees and Your Business for Pandemic Flu

Does your company have a plan in place that will allow you to continue operation in the face of unprecedented absenteeism due to a wide spread flu outbreak?

In June, the World Health Organization (WHO) raised the worldwide pandemic alert level to Phase 6–a designation indicating that a global pandemic is underway. More than 170 countries are now reporting cases of H1N1 Influenza, a virus the WHO anticipates will persist into the upcoming influenza season. As health experts around the world seek to better understand the scope and severity of the flu pandemic, this is a critical time for businesses to review and update their emergency preparedness plans. Join representatives from the American Red Cross for a seminar on flu preparedness, where you'll hear about the latest developments and resources available to help you:

• Educate employees about how to prepare for and respond effectively to pandemic flu.
• Aid in business sustainability in the face of pandemic flu.
• Learn about OSHA's new pandemic flu products and resources.

This Seminar will also provide you with an orientation to a new American Red Cross pandemic flu preparedness program that you can deliver to your employees. The program covers:

• What to expect during a flu pandemic.
• The difference between seasonal flu and pandemic flu.
• How the influenza virus spreads.
• Steps to reduce the spread of flu in the workplace.
• What questions to ask about workplace policies, practices and protocols related to the potential of a flu pandemic.

You and any members of your staff are invited to attend a brown-bag luncheon seminar presented by the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts to help Prepare Your Employees and Your Business for Pandemic Flu. This seminar will take place on Friday, October 30, 2009 from 11:30am – 1:00 p.m. ET at the American Red Cross Mary C. DeFeudis Training Center in Leominster, MA (driving directions enclosed).

A fee of $20.00 per organization will be collected at the door and will include Preparing Small Business Workplaces for Pandemic Flu - Leader's Toolkit with Leader's Guide, DVD, and CD-Rom that will allow participants to bring the content of this presentation back to their place of business. Additional kits can be purchased for $19.95.

R.S.V.P. to Bill Husted at 508-595-3717 by October 28, 2009.

Deluxe Corporation Foundation Supports Disaster Relief Services

The American Red Cross of Central MA is pleased to announce that the Deluxe Corporation Foundation has generously supported our Disaster Relief Program with a grant in the amount of $10,000.

Deluxe is a company with a strong sense of community. The Deluxe Corporation has facilities located Groton and Townsend in northern central Massachusetts. Following the December 2008 Ice Storm, Deluxe Corporation employees witnessed the damage followed by the support offered to the residents by our local Disaster Relief Volunteers. Many communities lost power for more than a week and residents were forced to seek shelter in local shelters where the Red Cross helped by providing staffing, meals, snacks and water.

Our Disaster Relief program offers assistance to individuals affected by man-made and natural disasters. Most often those are home and multi-dwelling fires, floods and blizzards.

The American Red Cross of Central MA thanks the Deluxe Corporation Foundation for their generous support. To learn more about the Deluxe Corporation, please visit www.deluxe.com.

To learn more about how your company can support the Red Cross, please click here.

Red Cross Clubs Making Measles History!

The Red Cross Clubs at the Nativity School of Worcester, the Abby Kelley Foster Charter School and South High Community School have joined the world wide fight against measles by joining with the Red Cross sponsored Measles Initiative. By raising over $400 (it cost less than $1 to vaccinate a child), these middle and high school students have truly helped to make a difference!

Measles is one of the leading killers of children worldwide. An estimated 540 children die each day from the disease. However, thanks to the Measles Initiative, measles deaths have been reduced by 74% globally between 2000 and 2007. This reduction is even greater in Africa, where measles deaths have plunged by 89% in the same time period.

The Measles Initiative (www.measlesinitiative.org) is led by the American Red Cross and its partners-Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, UNICEF, UN Foundation and the World Health Organization (WHO). The Initiative provides technical and financial support to governments and communities on mass vaccination campaigns, routine immunization and disease surveillance.

Thank you to our local Red Cross Clubs for your wonderful support of this global effort! Through the Measles Initiative, including Red Cross Clubs nationwide, millions of children are getting the opportunity to have a healthier life. To find out more about Red Cross Youth Clubs or the Measles Initiative contact Sue Swanberg, Director of Youth Programs: Swanbergs@usa.redcross.org.

A Disaster Victim's Story

Bob Hermann and his family spent July 3, 2009 like many other families in Marlborough- having a barbeque with friends. However, their day didn't end with sleeping soundly in their beds awaiting the fireworks and celebrations for the 4th of July. Instead, they spent their evening trying to process how a fire could devastate their garage and spill smoke and soot into their home.

Bob's daughter Kristine was the first to see the smoke. Bob and his wife scrambled to the garage to assess the situation and move their cars, one of which was melted in the front from the heat. The Hermann's two daughters called 9-1-1 and within minutes the Marlborough Fire Department was at the scene.

Once the fire was under control, representatives from the Marlborough Fire Department informed the family of the Red Cross' services. Bob declined, thinking the house was not damaged in the incident. Shortly after, he learned their house had soot and smoke damage and that the power had been shut off. Being a holiday weekend, none of these issues could be handled for several days. Bob decided to take up the American Red Cross of Central MA's offer to aid him and his family in their time of need.

The Hermann's were provided with comfort kits and directed to a hotel in Marlborough where reservations had already been made for the family.

"The American Red Cross was a huge help. They made arrangements for my family to stay in a hotel, which was something I hadn't even begun to think about. My mind was all over the place, and the Red Cross made sure I had one less burden," recalled Bob.

Bob Hermann works full time at Staples corporate headquarters in Framingham as well as being a Program Director for H.O.P.E. Worldwide, which is, "an international charity that changes lives by harnessing the compassion and commitment of dedicated staff and volunteers to deliver sustainable, high-impact, community-based services to the poor and needy." Ironically, last year, Bob coordinated 600 volunteers and the distribution of 26,000 fire safety information door hangers to neighborhoods in Brockton, Lawrence, Lowell, Cambridge, Dorchester, and Framingham.

He is adamant about the importance of preparedness. "Being aware of how to react to the fire at my house meant my family and our vehicles got out safely. Being prepared for these kinds of events is crucial, even when you think it could never happen to you."

South High School Red Cross Club Presents "Scrubby Bear" Hygiene Program

Kindergarteners at Columbus Park School in Worcester have learned all about the importance of good hand washing in the fight against colds and flu thanks to the efforts of the Red Cross Club from South High School.

Using the Red Cross "Scrubby Bear - Personal Hygiene" presentation, ARC club members taught about how germs are spread and with help from the story adventures of "The Scrubby Bear Family and Pigletta", the importance of not sharing food, covering those coughs and sneezes, and thorough hand washing!

With this years heightened concerns over flu, the efforts of the South High Red Cross Club could not be timelier, and the club plans to offer this fun program to youth pre-school through 2nd grade throughout the fall. We applaud the continued efforts of this fine group of high school students to protect the health of our youngest community members. Thank You!

For more information on the Red Cross "Scrubby Bear" program contact Sue Swanberg at: swanbergs@usa.redcross.org.

American Red Cross of Central MA Receives Grant to Promote HIV/AIDS Prevention for Adolescent Girls

The American Red Cross of Central MA is pleased to announce grant funding of $5,000 from The Investing in Girls Alliance to provide education on HIV/AIDS prevention, promoting sexual health and healthy relationships for middle school aged girls in the greater Worcester area.

According to 2007 needs assessment conducted by The Investing in Girls Alliance, girls ages 10-14 felt that education, health, sexual health, relationships, and violence/safety existed as challenges or threats to them. The Fred Harris Daniels Foundation and the United Way of Central Massachusetts Women's Initiative sponsored the creation of a strategic plan for the development of programs that will effectively aid girls in overcoming these five prominent challenges in their lives.

The American Red Cross of Central MA has been selected to educate girls in and around Worcester on HIV/AIDS facts and prevention. The organization is offering age-appropriate programs to middle school, after school, and summer programs, as well as to any other programs that can reach this target audience. These sessions will be facilitated by ARC certified HIV/AIDS Education and Prevention Instructors who are trained and prepared to facilitate discussions and answer questions in a nonjudgmental and culturally sensitive manner.

The ARC also offers courses and for Instructor Training for the HIV/AIDS Education and Prevention program and has scholarships available for those who can reach adolescent girls with the potentially lifesaving information.

The top priority of this program is to empower and educate young women on sexual health and relationships. According to survey data, adolescents in MA who receive HIV/AIDS education in school are less likely to engage in sexual behavior than those who have not. The knowledge gained from the American Red Cross program will spread to others beyond the individuals who are directly educated.

For more information on becoming an HIV/AIDS Education and Prevention Instructor or to have an instructor speak with girls in your program, please contact Susan Swanberg, Director of Youth Programs and HIV/AIDS Education & Prevention Programs, at 508-595-3710 or Swanbergs@usa.redcross.org.

7th grade ETS students at BF Brown Middle School raise funds for ARC!

Our thanks go out to the fine 7th graders involved in the MWCC (Mount Wachusett Community College) Educational Talent Search program at BF Brown Middle School in Fitchburg who raised $99 for our local American Red Cross! Under the direction of teacher Sharmese Gunn, these students meet often to explore opportunities that will prepare them for college including being mindful of the importance of community service. Each year the ETS students hold a penny drive, visiting each class to collect as much change as possible to be given to a good cause.

This year 7th grader Tony Duong suggested the American Red Cross as recipients after his mother told him of how the Red Cross assisted his grandparents and their neighbors after a house fire years ago. In addition these students are well aware of how badly their community was devastated by December's ice storm and the supportive efforts of their local ARC, making this year's fundraiser particularly timely.

Thank you to BF Middle School students (pictured from left to right with Sue Swanberg, ARC Director of Youth Programs): Yazerin Torres, Nakeeya Codrington, Rafael Mejias , Ryain MacLean, Tony Duong, Ryain MacLean, Yasmeen Jones, Cassandra Boddie and Jazmine Snowden. You truly make a difference!

Home Pool Essentials Maintenance and Safety Online Course Offered

Alarming statistics have recently shown that in the past year, 79% of children under age 5 drowning have occurred in residential pools. The American Red Cross has teamed up with the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) to create an online course which will cover basic home pool operation, safety awareness, and rescue techniques to ensure a safer summer for you and your family.

The online course takes 2 hours to complete. Knowledge assessments are given after each component to reinforce key topics and lessons. Upon finishing the course, participants will print a completion certificate. There is no validity period.

The cost of the Home Pool Essentials Maintenance and Safety Online Course is $19.95. If you are interested in signing up, please visit www.homepoolessentials.org. This Web site provides course information as well as a link for participants to register and pay.

Chapter CEO Visits Guatemala Red Cross

Lisa Piehler, CEO of the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts recently traveled to Guatemala to visit her son who is studying and working abroad.

Two of her priorities while traveling were to visit the Guatemalan Red Cross and attend a Rotary International Club meeting. Unfortunately, there were no Rotary meetings during the time due to Semana Santa (Holy Week). However, Lisa was able to exchange the Worcester Rotary Club flag with the Guatemala City Rotary Club flag, because the friends of the family where Lisa and her son were staying with were Rotarians.

One of the highlights of Lisa's trip was a visit to the Red Cross in Zone 1 of Guatemala City. They arrived at the office after hours, met a wonderful security guard outside and were fortunate enough to catch Lic. Walter Hernandez Schaeffer right between meetings. Walter was not only the Director of that branch, but the Director General of the Cruz Roja Guatemalteca (Red Cross of Guatemala). The group had a chance to speak for about 20 minutes as he was in a bit of a rush to attend a presentation. Walter spoke very quickly, making it a bit difficult for the official diplomatic translator (Lisa's son) to keep up... but they managed. He explained the services that the twenty branches provide in the country and he showered them with Red Cross gifts and pins.

Lisa was also able to visit the Centro Medico Militar, one of Guatemala's military hospitals. Her son's Guatemalan friend, Otto's great aunt Rosita and her husband Marco (shown above) are 83 and 85 respectively and yet somehow manage to volunteer everyday at nursing homes and the military base. Here, Lisa was able to meet many fine individuals and discuss the relationship between the Red Cross and the United States Military.

Thank You to Our Dedicated Volunteers!

National Volunteer Week is designated to recognize all volunteers and celebrate the spirit of volunteerism.

At the American Red Cross, we are especially grateful for the hundreds of volunteers who contribute their time, blood and financial support. Many of us are ourselves volunteers. We know first-hand the selfless nature of people who give with no expectation of being paid for their time.

However, volunteers will tell you that they are well-paid. The reward for their work is not money, but is, instead, the satisfaction of helping others, active involvement in the community and the friendships that form through volunteer work.

Service has a profound effect on the person who provides the help as well. "I'm not wealthy, but I am richer because I volunteer," comments one Red Crosser when expressing that volunteering has changed her life

This year, the theme of National Volunteer Week is "Celebrating People in Action," and that is just what Red Cross volunteers are Đ people in action. The actions of the American Red Cross volunteers provide relief to victims affected by domestic and international disasters; they help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies; they provide lifesaving blood to victims of disease, burns and injuries; they connect families separated by a call to duty; they teach lifesaving skills; and the American Red Cross celebrates the actions of our volunteers who enable us to fulfill our mission.

To our volunteers here in Central MA, we thank you for all you give us. If you are not currently a volunteer for the American Red Cross, you are invited to join us in our efforts to keep our community healthy and safe. We encourage you to call Christine Clifford at 508-595-3730 today to help to change a life!

American Red Cross Supports Italy's Earthquake Response

By Abi Weaver, International Communications
Tuesday, April 07, 2009 - In response to the powerful earthquake and aftershocks that rocked L'Aquila, Italy this week, the American Red Cross has committed $50,000 to support the humanitarian relief activities currently being carried out by the Italian Red Cross.

Aerial view of collapsed buildings around L'Aquila, Italyon April 6, 2009. A powerful earthquake struck central Italy early on Monday, killing more than 200 people, making up more than 17,000 homeless and flattening entire medieval towns while residents slept. [REUTERS/Livio Anticoli/Pool]

As recovery and response efforts intensify following yesterday's deadly tremor, the Italian Red Cross confirms more than 17,000 people have instantly become homeless.

Addressing the urgent needs of those who are now homeless, providing emergency health care and supporting the life-saving search and rescue operations remain among the pressing priorities of the Italian Red Cross. Government reports now suggest that the 6.3-magnitude quake caused the deaths of 207 people and left more than 1,500 injured and in need of medical care. "It is a very big tragedy; very sad," said Tommaso Della Longa of the Italian Red Cross. "Being a former war journalist I am acquainted with death and tragedy, but what I see here is hard to believe. (There is) no war, but the city looks as if it has been ruined by heavy bombing. I have seen it in Gaza, in Kuwait (and) in Sarajevo. Now I see the same in my country. No words."

A rescue dog inspects the rubble of a crushed house after an earthquake in L'Aquila, Italy on April 6, 2009. [REUTERS/Giampiero Sposito]

More than 350 Italian Red Cross volunteers in the region have been working around the clock since the tremors began. Within an hour, volunteers as well as search and rescue dogs were on scene, helping to find and pull people from the rubble.

Ambulances, staffed by approximately half of the volunteers, are helping to evacuate the injured from L’Aquila to the hospitals in nearby Tagliacozzo, Pescina and Avezzano. Overnight, the Italian Red Cross also evacuated an orphanage in San Gregorio and is caring for the 12 children who resided there.

Soon after the quake, volunteers established a field hospital to relieve the burden on local health facilities which are under an enormous strain due to the sudden upsurge in demand. From that post, the Italian Red Cross rendered aid for more than 300 wounded patients yesterday.

Della Longa added, this morning, the Italian Red Cross set up two additional tent camps and distributed 10,000 blankets in the neighboring villages of Sangrigorio and Paganica to shelter the homeless.  An additional 5,000 blankets are expected to arrive today and be distributed before the evening chill. Mobile kitchens, with the capacity to provide 10,000 meals each day, continue to feed earthquake survivors and emergency responders. Additionally, five psychological support teams from the Italian Red Cross are helping people cope with and recover from their losses.

“I cannot but admire the spirit and dignity of the local people” said Della Longa. “They do not cry, they do not complain, but everyone is trying to help … reach relatives (and) friends. There is so much dignity in what they are doing and how they are coping with this horrible tragedy.”

A woman looks out the window of a tent as she rests at a make-shift camp in L'Aquila, Italy on April 6, 2009. [REUTERS/Alessandro Bianchi]

The American Red Cross has received many generous offers from the U.S. citizens, including those already in the region on vacation and others who wish to travel and assist in the relief efforts. While we are grateful for the support of compassionate individuals who offer to help people in their time of need at home and around the world, the Italian Red Cross has not asked for international assistance in the form of volunteers.

Since 1968 the International Federation and member National Societies have supported the Italian Red Cross three times after earthquakes in 1968, 1976 and in 1980. In 1980 some 3,000 people lost their lives after a deadly quake hit the region of Naples. In 1992 a quake in Umbria claimed 13 lives and countless cultural treasures. The most recent deadly quake was in 2002 when 30 people died, including 27 pupils and their teacher, in the southern Italian town of San Giuliano di Puglia.

Local Red Cross Volunteer Joins North Dakota Relief Effort Additional Chapter Volunteers On Stand-By

Worcester, MA, March 27, 2009— As residents of the Red River valley prepare for potentially record flooding, the American Red Cross is moving into position to provide help where needed. A shipment of 24,000 pre-packaged meals are expected to arrive today, along with thousands of cots, blankets and toiletry kits.

These supplies are expected to be used for evacuation shelters, which may open within the next 48 to 72 hours, depending on weather conditions. The Red Cross is working a double play, combining the strength of its local chapters and American Red Cross national headquarters, as the organization is preparing for what could be a long disaster relief operation if the snow delays the river crest and water levels stay high for an extended time.

More than 300 Red Cross workers are already on the scene and 12 volunteer teams will arrive today to operate shelters. Emergency Response Vehicles are providing meals to sandbagging volunteers and more trucks are on the way. More than 50,000 ready-to-eat meals are already on site, as well as cots and blankets. The Red Cross is coordinating all of these efforts with the governor’s office, as well as state and local emergency managers.

Local Red Cross volunteer, Steve Oskirko, of Lancaster, MA deployed for a three week assignment on Wednesday evening. Oskirko is serving as one of the lead Damage Assessment Supervisors for the relief operation. An additional team of 7 volunteers remain on stand-by and ready to respond upon request.

Volunteers may be available for interview via cell phone upon request. For more information contact Nicole Valentine at 508-735-7124.

Breakfast Of Champions To Salute Nine Local Residents

In its continued desire to recognize and encourage heroism at the local level, The American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts held “A Breakfast of Champions” on Thursday, March 19, 2009 at 7:30 a.m. at the Beechwood Hotel Ballroom, located in Worcester.

Eight local residents were recognized for their heroic acts at this special event. Each Hero was selected through a public nomination process focused on “ordinary” individuals that have made “extraordinary” efforts to help a person or group of persons in need, some here in our own backyards and others across the globe.

Gina Smith and Ed McNamara receive their award from Lisa A. Piehler, CEO, ARC of Central MA and Chick Weiss, Red Cross Board Chair.

“Once again, we celebrate “March is Red Cross Month” with this event which brings together community leaders, neighbors, friends, and supporters of the American Red Cross, whose lives have been touched by the actions of the these local heroes,” stated Nicole Valentine, Director of Emergency Services and Public Affairs for the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts. “It is a true honor to recognize these ordinary people who have gone to extraordinary measures to help a neighbor in need.”

Heroes recognized at the event include:

Dr. Paul Hart

Fifteen years ago, along with Rev. C. Barry Wood and other members of the Epworth United Methodist Church, Dr. Paul Hart began a free medical program that answers the needs of patients in the greater Worcester area. The program is completely manned by volunteers who give their time offering physical exams, medications, hearing aids, eyeglasses and other basic care. In addition to his outstanding work offering patients free medical care, Dr. Hart also travels to under-developed countries on medical missions.

Michael Boamah

While parties are usually a great deal of fun – and often it’s a time to “horse around and wrestle”, but imagine the panic when one of the guests passed out. At first everyone thought the guest was just joking….but Mike noticed his friend’s lips were turning blue, he was not breathing and had no pulse. Although not formally trained in CPR, Mike immediately recognized his friend needed help and began the basics of CPR – savings his friend’s life.

Gina Smith
Edward McNamara

Gina and Ed serve on the Massachusetts 2 Disaster Medical Assistance Team or MA-2 DMAT, a group of local professional and para-professional medical personnel (supported by a cadre of logistical and administrative staff) designed to provide medical care during a national disaster or other event. During times of need the MA-2 DMAT, under Health and Human Services deploys as a federal rapid-response element to augment local efforts in the affected areas. When called upon, a team of 35 deploys to disaster sites with sufficient supplies and equipment to sustain themselves for a period of 72 hours while providing medical care at a fixed or temporary medical of care site. The team is activated for a period of two weeks.

Richard Aumais

At a National Grid employee barbeque, Richard noticed a fellow employee having trouble breathing after eating a piece of steak. The fellow, trying to dislodge the steak himself thought he could wash it down with lemonade, but the lemonade began to get into his lungs. Thinking quickly, Richard performed the Heimlich maneuver which dislodged the steak saving his fellow employee’s life.

Lieutenant John Franco
Captain Michael Lavoie

John and Mike are both Worcester firefighters who put their lives on the line everyday. Today, John and Mike aren’t being recognized for what they do as their “job”, but rather for the project they have taken on during their off duty time – the Worcester Fire Department Memorial 6K Road Race – an event held in memory of the Worcester Fire Department’s six fallen heroes. The road race is well attended and everyone has a great time involving countless hours of organization. Over the past 10 years the Race has raised more than $250,000 which has been donated back to the community, including the CT Burn Camp – a place where children dealing with the scars of fires go every year with the help of scholarship money.

Dr. Gary Asher

In 1998 Dr. Asher of Lunenburg Family Practice was moved by the destruction caused by hurricane Mitch that struck Honduras. Dr. Asher is accepting the award on behalf of Capes Cares. He travels once a year with Cape Cares, a team of medical and non medical volunteers that sends nine teams to Honduras offering free medical and dental services to people in locations where there is no access to ongoing medical treatment. Cape Cares offers friendship and develops a bond with the people in the villages they visit. Often times a smile or a hand on the shoulder of a sick or frightened person is the best way to show that this team cares.

In addition to these awards, the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts will be honoring Robert McLaren of Shrewsbury with the 2nd Annual Ambassadors Award for his enormous gifts of time, talent and spirit to further the mission of the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts.

4H Huggable Hounds Give Comfort!

Thanks to the Mass Huggable Hounds 4H Club our local Red Cross Chapter has been restocked with “Comfort Kits”, providing a valuable service to our many clients affected by house fires and other emergencies.

Last year this energetic group of young people became engaged with the Red Cross, seeking to be of help, both to our human and animal friends in a disaster situations. Visiting our chapter, learning about emergency response as well as our work with CMDART (Central Massachusetts Disaster Animal Response Team), the club decided to take action.

Applying to the Tufts Neighborhood Service fund and securing a $500 grant, on January 3rd the club gathered at the Red Cross equipped with toothbrushes and paste, wash cloths, razors, soap, small toys and more! Supplies were then organized into “Comfort Kits” and now are ready to be given to people who have been displaced from their homes. A few personal toiletry items means a lot for someone suddenly placed in a shelter or hotel due to a disaster. And, with our comfort kit supply being totally depleted during the recent ice storm relief effort, the timing could not have been better!

Thank you so much to these caring young people and their leaders; you are truly a valuable asset to the American Red Cross!

Happy Valentines and Thank You from the Girl Scouts!

On January 3, once again the Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts gathered at Auburn Mall for their annual “Cookie Kick-off” celebration and once again they have served their local American Red Cross!

For 3 hours girls of all ages worked feverishly around the Red Cross Valentines table, lending their artistic talents to create 378 beautiful “Valentine Thank You” cards to be sent in appreciation to our donors. This is the third consecutive year that the scouts have contributed in this way, it is always a fabulous and fun event for all, and our donors always appreciate their loving, homemade touch!

The Red Cross thanks the girls for their continued efforts on our behalf, and notes that this is just one of the ways that the Girl Scouts stay involved. Many troops come to our Red Cross chapter for tours, participate in other Red Cross service projects, and train in First Aid, CPR and Babysitting. For more information on how scouts can become engaged contact: Sue Swanberg, Director of Youth Programs, .

Red Cross Receives $75,000 from National Grid for Ice Storm Relief

Relief Efforts Continue Across Central MA

WORCESTER, MA, DECEMBER 15, 2008 - The American Red Cross announced today they have received a donation of $75,000 from National Grid in support of its current ice storm relief operations and to assist in preparations and response for future disaster relief in the local area. The gift is part of a total $225,000 that National Grid is donating to the American Red Cross to assist with relief efforts for the Ice Storm. Other chapters receiving support are ARC of Northeastern New York and ARC of Massachusetts Bay.

More details…

Red Cross National Relief Efforts Continue - Please Donate Now

As relief efforts continue in the aftermath of Hurricane Ike, millions of people have no electricity and hundreds of thousands who evacuated don’t know if their homes are damaged or when they can return. From Illinois to Texas, thousands of American Red Cross disaster workers are on the ground, providing safe shelter, food, water, and comfort to those affected by the Hurricane Ike and its remnants.

Each day, tens of thousands of people are turning to the Red Cross in the aftermath of Hurricanes Ike and Gustav, we must have the means to meet their needs. Our Disaster Relief Fund is depleted and it is essential that we raise enough money to help disaster victims. We estimate spending between $40 and $70 million helping those affected by Hurricane Gustav and the cost of the Hurricane Ike relief effort could easily climb higher than that. Please click here to make a secure on-line donation to our National Disaster Relief Fund! Thank you!

Johnny Appleseed Arts & Cultural Festival

On September 13, 2008 the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts participated in the Johnny Appleseed Arts & Cultural Festival in the city of Leominster. The city of Leomister celebrated 15 years of the civic event. Our booth had many activities for the child who attended as well as Amanda our CPR/FA instructor who demonstrated CPR techniques. We even participated in the raffle. Many thanks to Curley - Marchard Funeral Home , Tom Marchand who sponsored the booth for us.

Red Cross and Worcester Sharks Team Up for International Effort in Haiti

Learn more ...

Recent College Grads Lead the Way as Volunteers

Caitlin Bonadies, is a 2008 Worcester State College graduate and intern extraordinaire in the Emergency Services Department. In addition to completing her undergraduate studies in Health Science (BS), Caitlin holds down a job as a Sales Lead Manager at Express in the Auburn mall, and volunteers at the Red Cross 20 hours per week.

More details ...

Instructor Spotlight

Every three months the ARC of Central Mass will highlight one of our Instructors from Health and Safety, Health Care Programs and Disaster Education. The ARC of Central Mass is very proud of these dedicated, accomplished individuals, we would like to spread the word. Please read on and enjoy!

How I became an Instructor
Bob Warfield - CPR-PROF, CPR - AED-A & C / I, FA, & BBP

Long, long ago before DVD & VCR there was Standard First Aid (21 hours) and "lecture" style CPR (9 hours).

I had taken a Standard First Aid course since I was working with a youth group going on camping trips. My instructor encouraged me to consider being a volunteer instructor for the Red Cross. I did, and have been for almost 30 years. It was through this encouragement that I have had the privilege to work with some very wonderful people and help keep our part of the world a little safer. I have also encouraged some promising people to consider this opportunity.

In 1979, I became an instructor in Multi-media First Aid and taught my first class in September of 1979. This was done with 16mm film, not video. At that time CPR was not a part of the First Aid Class. I became a CPR instructor in 1981 (lecture style). Adding on other classes as they evolved. I miss the Mass Child Care Course; it reached a very important group of day care providers.

My biggest thrill was to be present when two of my students received the Award of Merit for saving a life. They were lifeguards at Camp Chilaven in Douglas, I had trained the whole staff in CPR-Prof. Rescuer.

I have received several surprises over the years, Volunteer of the Month in August of 1986, Volunteer of the year in 1987, 1992 & 1994. Ultimate Community Service Recognition award from Marane Oil / Worcester Ice Cats in 1999 (nomination from CMC ARC).

With the training I have received I have been privileged to go to Honduras 5 times with a medical mission team Cristo Salva. There we minister to & through the churches in the Macalezo SB area. We have a clinic built in 2005 in Macalezo that is staffed by us four times a year, as well as mobile & house-to-house clinics. We have been able to provide, with an organization called Vitamin Angel, daily vitamins to 55,000 school children along with parasite medication twice a year.

All things in Honduras are a project. No trip is the same except for the probability of losing water and or electricity at some time during the two weeks we are there. Thank you Bob, for your dedication and hard work.

Red Cross Recognized Local Community Heroes

Michael P. Tsotsis Received 1st Annual Ambassadors Award

Worcester, MA, March 20, 2008 - In its continued desire to recognize and encourage heroism at the local level, The American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts held "A Breakfast of Champions" on Thursday, March 20, 2008. at the Beechwood Hotel Ballroom, located in Worcester.

Six local residents were recognized for their heroic acts at this special event. Each Hero was selected through a public nomination process focused on "ordinary" individuals that have made "extraordinary" efforts to help a person or group of persons in need, some here in our own backyards and others across the globe. In addition to the local heroes honored, Michael P. Tsotsis received the 1st Annual Ambassador Award recognizing his dedication to the local Chapter.

"As part of the activities for the "March is Red Cross Month Campaign", this event brings together community leaders, neighbors, friends, and supporters of the American Red Cross, whose lives have been touched by the actions of the these local heroes," stated Nicole Valentine, Director of Emergency Services and Public Affairs for the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts. "It is a true honor to recognize our local heroes with this celebration of the human spirit."

Heroes recognized at the event include:

Amy Grassett, Worcester, MA

By giving her own personal account, Amy focuses attention on the plight of the homeless and is an active advocate for these individuals.

Carol Bova, MD, Princeton, MA

Carol’s work to increase educational health programs has made a positive impact on the lives of patients, particularly women infected with HIV/AIDS.

Lena Sbrogna, Worcester, MA

When a mother whose child was choking came to Lena’s door for help, Lena performed the Heimlich maneuver and saved the child’s life.

Dr. John Mulqueen and Paula Mulqueen, RN, Gardner, MA

John, a pediatrician and his wife, Paula an RN, have embarked on an amazing endeavor with Forward in Health to improve health care in the south of Haiti.

Ralph & Elaine LeBlanc, Shrewsbury, MA

For the past 25 years, Ralph & Elaine have devoted their lives to improving the health of impoverished families in Guatemala.

Jonathan M. Spector, MD

Since 2002, Dr. Spector, a neonatology fellow, has worked with Doctors Without Borders to improve the well-being of children living in third world countries such as Angola and Darfur.

In addition to these awards, the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts will be honoring Michael P. Tsotsis of Rutland with the 1st Annual Ambassadors Award for his enormous gifts of time, talent and spirit to further the mission of the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts.

Breakfast of Champions tickets can be secured on-line for $25 or by contacting Patricia Gauthier at 508-595-3753.

Ready When the Time Comes

The City of Worcester Department of Health & Human Services and the American Red Cross are joining forces to prepare teams of trained volunteers to be ready to immediately help in a time of a local, large scale disaster. Each year the American Red Cross responds to over 120 disasters right here in Central Massachusetts. Although most of these disasters are not large scale, we must be prepared. One can never predict when our community may be challenged by the effects of a devastating fire, flood, explosion on hazardous materials event.

This year, National Volunteer Week is April 28th - May 3rd. We are appealing to you to please consider joining our efforts to recruit the cadre of volunteers required to provide the most effective and efficient disaster services to our neighbors at their time of need. By cross-training with the American Red Cross and the Worcester Medical Reserve Corp, you are not only helping us to enhance our team and the safety of our City, but also gaining a wonderful opportunity to participate in meaningful and rewarding work, knowing that you have helped to make a difference. A few of these great opportunities include: Sheltering, MASS CARE and Feeding, Medical or Mental Health, and Damage Assessment. For more information, please contact Christine Clifford at 508-595-3730.

Red Cross Club at Clark University Shines!

The Community Engagement Committee of the Colleges of Worcester Consortium awarded the American Red Cross Club at Clark University with a Worcester UniverCity Partnership Award on Tuesday, March 11th! This award is presented to students and organizations whose contributions to the greater Worcester area have made a significant impact to both volunteerism and community based learning.

As part of their involvement in the American Red Cross Youth Club, Paula Zimmerman, Robert Hipps, Remi Pavlova, Nicole Paradis, Sarah Richard, Margo Sheck, Serena Pham, Joanna Lubkin, James Wilson and Amy Saba formed a Disaster Action Team (DAT) to respond to local emergencies. This team serves as first line responders in aiding the victims of house fires. Their DAT organization earned them the honor of the UniverCity Award; however, the activities of the Clark University club extend far beyond this one service!

Clark University students are also currently raising money for the Measles Initiative! They held their first awareness drive before the holidays and as part of the ongoing initiative will be holding another in the spring. In addition, Clark student James Wilson has become a Red Cross certified CPR/ First Aid Instructor. In an effort to better prepare the students in the event of a CPR or First Aid emergency, Wilson will be offering training classes to his fellow students at Clark.

The students in the Clark University Red Cross Club have certainly outdone themselves this year in volunteerism, community involvement, and embodying the humanitarianism values of the American Red Cross!

The American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts was also honored at the Colleges and Community – Creating Collaborations networking event. As a fellow recipient of the Worcester UniverCity Partnership Award, the ARC of Central Massachusetts was recognized for its continued dedication to involving students in serving the Worcester community.

Local Volunteers Respond to 100th Disaster

January/February Fires Displace Additional 54 Families

February 29, 2008, Worcester, MA- An unprecedented amount of local responses has severely taxed both the human and material resources of the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts. The Chapter logged its 100th Disaster Response since July 1st, 2007 with last night’s response to a fire in Fitchburg.

Records of the Chapter’s five year history show the local Red Cross averaging between 90 and 100 responses per year, displacing approximately 800 central Massachusetts residents.

Volunteers and staff from the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts have established case files for 184 families whose homes have been destroyed by fires over the past eight months. To date, 583 individuals, including 195 children have been displaced by local disasters.

“This unprecedented amount of incidents has taken a devastating toll on our community,” stated Nicole Valentine, spokesperson for the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts. “Our dedicated volunteers are responding to fires on an average of one incident every other day, which as you can imagine, has drained our disaster relief fund. These are not small, isolated incidents, rather major fires that are completely destroying homes, night after night.”

Forty six of the fires have occurred in the City of Worcester, with the remaining incidents taking place throughout the Chapter’s sixty nine town jurisdiction. In addition, fifty one of these incidents were single family homes.

With an additional four months remaining in the fiscal year, the local Chapter is turning towards our community for help. Additional volunteers are needed to assist the dedicated members of the Disaster Action Team who are continuously responding to help their neighbors in need.

“As your local American Red Cross, we remain committed to the needs of our community, however, we are at a point where we need to turn to the very same community for help,” Valentine stated. “By making a financial contribution or donating the gift of time, residents of central Massachusetts can help us to fulfill our commitment to provide emergency assistance during this critical time.”

Financial contributions to the local Chapter will help to rebuild the relief fund as volunteers continue to provide emergency food, clothing and shelter to disaster victims in our community. Donations can be made on-line by visiting www.redcrossworcester.org or by sending a contribution to the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts, Local Disaster Relief Fund, 2000 Century Drive, Worcester, MA 01606. Individuals who are interested in volunteering are encouraged to call Christine Clifford at 508-595-3730.

The Red Cross is pleased to be Recognized by Music Worcester

Please join us for "Compassion and Remembrance"

Music Worcester presents The Worcester Chorus - "Compassion & Remembrance"  including  the magnificent "Mozart Requiem" along with works by Benjamin Britten.

Contact the box office at Music Worcester (508-754-3231) to purchase tickets or use their website at www.musicworcester.org.

School Vacation Classes for Kids!

Looking for a great way to keep the kids busy during school vacation? Look no further! The American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts is offering our Babysitter’s Training Course to 11-15 year olds during April vacations. Course materials cover Basic First Aid, Safe and Creative Play, Basic Care for Children and are designed to help participants develop skills in leadership and professionalism. Participants in the Babysitter Course receive an American Red Cross certificate of completion, babysitter's handbook and backpack. Enroll today by calling 508-595-3700…seats will fill fast!!

Tiny Tot With An Enormous Heart

Ask most preschoolers what they saw on TV this morning and they will mention “Dora the Explorer” or perhaps “Sesame Street”. Not three year old Worcester resident Mercy Loizeaux! A few weeks back, Mercy was watching the news with her mom and caught a glance of the news clip about the devastating fire in the City that left dozens of residents homeless. She grew very concerned tilted her little head and said “Mommy, will they have toys? Where will they live? We have to help them.”

And help she did! Mercy remained persistent and charged mom with finding a way to help. Later that day, mom called our Chapter and asked if there was a special project for Mercy, as she was so young but wanted to do something meaningful. Mercy chose to put together “comfort kits”, a project which required her family to purchase toiletries, including wash cloths, tooth brushes, shampoo, soaps and additional items for disaster clients to utilize while seeking temporary shelter in a local hotel.

We received a surprise visit from Mercy last week as she hand delivered four beautifully decorated comfort kits “to help the sad people who didn’t have a house”. We are truly grateful to Mercy and extremely proud of her for thinking of her neighbors in need!

Pictured: Three year old Mercy Loizeaux, her “comfort kits” and Lisa A. Piehler, CEO, American Red Cross of Central MA

The Girl Scouts have served the Red Cross yet again!

The distinguished ladies of central and western Massachusetts held their annual Cookie-Kick-Off Saturday January 5th at the Auburn Mall where Daisies, Brownies, Junior and Senior girls alike joined in creating over 300 Valentines Day cards to thank the Red Cross’ highest donors!

This celebration commemorates the start of the Girl Scout’s most anticipated season – Cookie Season! The Girl Scouts supported both the Red Cross and their own troops on this festive Saturday. For 3 hours the girls manned (or wo-“manned”) a Red Cross Valentine Creation table, and also began selling their signature Thin Mints and Samoas, in addition to the rest of the infamous Girl Scout cookie collection.

The Red Cross would like to thank the Girl Scouts for their continued dedication to serving our community and for making the event truly memorable. The collaboration of the Red Cross and the Girl Scouts for the Cookie-Kick-Off is one of many activities throughout the year that the organizations come together on.

For more information on how a Girl Scout leader can further involve her troop with the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts please email Sue Swanberg, Director of Youth Programs, at .

Red Cross Partners With Linked To Life

The American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts is pleased to announce a newly formed partnership with Link to Life®, the country’s second oldest provider of Personal Emergency Response Services. With this new partnership, a portion of the price of each Link To Life System sold will be donated to the American Red Cross.

Link to Life Personal Emergency Response System will allow you or a loved one to get the help they need with the touch of a button. By simply pressing the water-resistant Help Button, subscribers are connected to the Link to Life Response Center and within seconds can summon the help of the police, ambulance or fire department, or even a family member or neighbor.

“The Red Cross is honored to partner with Link To Life as we continue our mission to help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies of all kids,” stated Nicole Valentine, spokesperson for the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts.

Link to Life also maintains a complete list of medications and medical conditions on each subscriber to help ensure the best medical attention possible. Highly trained operators are available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week and also work as a line of communication by notifying family or friends of any real incident. Subscribers can push their button for any number of reasons ranging from a medical need to what Link to Life calls Social Reassurance™.

“We go far beyond the traditional ‘I’ve fallen and I can’t get up’ that most people are familiar with” states Kira Breard, a local representative of Link to Life. “Our mission is to treat all of our Subscribers like we would our own family and we really do.”

By ordering Link to Life, you can also help to save someone else’s life. There is a monthly cost of $34.95/month associated with the service and Link to Life is sometimes covered under MassHealth. Link to Life offers a no obligation 30-day trial period and service can be cancelled at anytime. For more information, to determine MassHealth Eligibility or to enroll in service, please call 877-434-9871.

Students Help the Red Cross

PRESENTING A CHECK FOR $775.55

SHREWSBURY - When wildfires ravaged Southern California this fall, Sherwood Middle School students Rachel Gore and Emily Ammons wanted to do something to help.

By Staff photo by Jeff Malachowski

Sherwood Middle School students Emily Ammons, left, and Rachel Gore
have been holding a raffle to benefit the Red Cross.

The two sixth-grade students passed out envelopes to each classroom in the school in hopes of getting donations that would help those who were displaced or had their houses destroyed. However, this idea generated little money and the girls came up with the idea to have a raffle last week with all the proceeds going to the American Red Cross. Many students crowded around the baskets, analyzing each item in the baskets and during each lunch period from Dec. 12 to Dec. 18, Gore and Ammons, as well as their mothers Karen and Linda, sold raffle tickets for a sports basket, a makeup basket, an arts and crafts basket and a Guitar Hero III video game. The two families put together two of the three baskets and purchased the Guitar Hero III game and the other basket was donated by a neighbor of Ammons. The price of the raffle tickets was $1 for 3 tickets and $3 for 10 tickets.

"So far, the Guitar Hero has been the most popular," said Rachel Gore.

"They initially wanted to collect for the wildfires," said Karen Ammons. "They thought of the idea and we just decided to come in and cover the two lunches they couldnt cover."

Throughout the week, flyers were posted around the school encouraging students to purchase tickets and announcements were made to students telling them when and where they could buy tickets.

As of Monday afternoon, Karen Ammons estimated the raffle had raised about $500 dollars. Originally, the two girls hoped to raise $500, but their goal has since changed to $600. The families were unsure of what the money will be used for, but they thought it may go to those who were affected by the gas tanker explosion in Everett in early December.

"I'm glad we're doing this so we can help out other people, especially during the holidays," said Emily Ammons.

"We thought it was a good learning experience for the girls to do this sail Karen Ammons. It has been a lot of work and the girls have really enjoyed it and are very excited about going to the Red Cross and presenting the money. It is nice to see kids helping out others in their community.

Permission provided by Shrewsbury Chronicle and Gatehouse Media to print the article above.

American Red Cross and Pitney Bowes Partner to Deliver Holiday Cards to Wounded Service Members

Worcester, MA , December 11, 2007 - America's wounded service members are always grateful for supportive cards and notes--especially during the holiday season. This holiday season, communities across America are invited to mail cards along with personal messages of support to wounded service members at military hospitals around the country, through a unique partnership between the American Red Cross and Pitney Bowes Inc.

With the support of the U.S. Department of Defense and Walter Reed Army Medical Center, and with help from Pitney Bowes Government Solutions, the American Red Cross will collect, review and distribute holiday greeting cards to wounded military personnel. For security reasons, the Red Cross will be able to accept only holiday cards but not packages. Red Cross volunteers will receive and bundle the cards, which will be shipped by Pitney Bowes Government Solutions. Then, Red Cross volunteers at the medical facilities will distribute the cards throughout the holiday season.

“Our local Chapter has received numerous calls from residents of all ages who want to show their support and gratitude by reaching out to wounded service members at Walter Reed and other military medical centers during the holiday season,” said Nicole Valentine, director of emergency services and public affairs for the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts. “With the support of the Department of Defense, Walter Reed leadership and Pitney Bowes, we are pleased to be able to bring a little cheer to these brave men and women,” added Valentine.

“It is an honor to provide this small measure of comfort at holiday time to those who have sacrificed so much,” said Pitney Bowes President and CEO Murray Martin. “We want to make it as easy as possible for all Americans to show their appreciation to the men and women who serve this nation so proudly and selflessly.”

Please address your holiday cards to:
We Support You During Your Recovery!
c/o American Red Cross
P.O. Box 419
Savage, MD20763-0419

Be sure to affix adequate postage. Multiple cards without envelopes may be placed in one mailing envelope or a box that includes a return address. Cards must be received no later than December 27. Cards received after this date will be returned to the sender. Again, senders are reminded that “care packages” are not part of the program––send only cards and notes. Also, please refrain from using glitter or any other inserts that would not be appropriate in a hospital environment.

96 Displaced in November/December Fires Red Cross/Worcester Fire Department Release Holiday Home Fire Safety Tips

Worcester, MA, December 6, 2006 - With the Holiday Season upon us, the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts and the Worcester Fire Department are urging the community to follow a few simple Holiday Safety Tips in an effort to avoid tragedies in the home. "Over the past six weeks, 96 central Massachusetts residents have lost their homes to fires," stated Nicole Valentine director of emergency services for the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts. "We are teaming up with the Worcester Fire Department to remind the community that these simple holiday safety tips pinpoint ways to avoid potential dangers associated with decorating homes and Christmas trees, preparing for holiday parties and decorating with candles."

Forty-one families from Worcester have been displaced by fires in their home since July 1, 2007.

"Taking precautions such as keeping candles away from Christmas trees, never leaving children unattended in a room with lit candles and always keeping candles, as well as matches and lighters out of the reach of children could prevent the loss of lives and homes," stated Worcester Fire District Fire Chief Frank D. DiLiddo III.

The American Red Cross and the Worcester Fire Department recommend the following safety tips for a joyous holiday season:

• Keep Christmas trees fresh - Place your tree away from heat sources and exits water it daily. Make sure your artificial tree is fire-retardant.
• Prepare for Holiday Parties - Decorate only with flame-retardant or noncombustible materials. If guests will be smoking, provide them with large, deep ashtrays and check them frequently. After the party, check inside and under upholstery and in trashcans for cigarette butts that may be smoldering.
• Inspect fireplaces and wood stoves - Have your chimney connections and flues inspected by a professional and cleaned if necessary prior to the start of the heating season. Burn only wood-never burn paper, including discarded gift wrap, or pine boughs. If you plan to hang stockings on your fireplace, do not use the fireplace for fires.
• Test Tree Trimmings - When decorating with lights, purchase only those labeled by a testing laboratory. If decorating an outside tree, use only those lights labeled for outdoor use. Don't overload electrical outlets, and always unplug all lights before leaving home or going to bed. Never put electrical lights on a metal Christmas tree.

Mary C. DeFeudis honored as a Philanthropist of Distinction

The American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts honored Mary C. DeFeudis on National Philanthropy Day at a luncheon held by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) at Cyprian Keyes on November 16th.

Lisa Piehler, CEO of the American Red Cross of Central MA said "Mary has been a generous supporter and friend of the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts, helping us help our neighbors in need and continue providing lifesaving programs, healthcare training and disaster recovery services for the residents of central Massachusetts".

"As a member of our prestigious Henry Dunant Society, Mary continuously steps forward as a philanthropic leader to support our initiatives and annual events, and we are grateful and honored to nominate Mary for this respected community recognition!"

In response to this honor, Mary commented, "Thank you to The American Red Cross for nominating me for this award. It is truly an honor. The American Red Cross is an institution that, for 126 years, has brought help to the hopeless, the homeless, the hurting, the desperate, the disenfranchised, and the vulnerable in our world.

"The symbol of The Red Cross is known around the globe as a beacon, on the battlegrounds of LIFE !----the fires, the floods, the hurricanes. They not only do whatever needs to be done, but they do so with care and respect for the dignity of every victim. I am so proud of my association with this wonderful organization."

From left to right: Kay Bassett, Chair - Board of Directors; Mary C. DeFeudis; Lisa Piehler, CEO - American Red Cross of Central MA

Weekend Fires Displace Additional 33 Residents

Red Cross Responding To Average of One Fire Every Three Days

Worcester, MA, November 13, 2007 - Red Cross volunteers responded to an additional five fires this weekend, bringing the total of individuals displaced during the month of November to 57 central Massachusetts residents.

The most recent incidents displaced an additional 13 families leaving 33 residents in the towns of Southbridge, Hudson, Charlton, Spencer and Worcester homeless. The fires in Charlton and Spencer were single family homes while the Southbridge, Hudson and Worcester incidents were multi-unit dwellings. A total of 20 adults and 13 children were displaced as a result of this weekend's fires, bringing the total of individuals displaced by fires since July 1st to 236.

Twenty six local Red Cross volunteers responded to the incidents over the weekend to provide emergency assistance on the scene. Volunteers interviewed heads of household from each of the effected homes or units to determine a service delivery plan on a case by case basis. Red Cross assistance included funds for temporary housing in local hotels, as well as funds for food, clothing, and seasonal garments.

"This weekend's fires validate our recent messaging urging central Massachusetts residents to familiarize themselves with our fire safety prevention tips," stated Nicole Valentine, director of emergency services for the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts. "There is a common thread that ties these families together... they have all lost their homes and personal possessions. Each of these people has stated I never thought it would happen to me," Valentine added.

The recent fires have not only directly affected the agencies disaster budget, but have taxed the volunteer resources as well. Volunteers are responding to an average of one fire every three days in the Chapter's 69 town jurisdiction, with several of the volunteers responding at least twice a week.

"With so many incidents, we are at a point where we need to go beyond our own resources and turn to our community for help," Valentine stated. "As we approach the Holiday Season, we are asking central Massachusetts residents to consider donating their time or financial support to their neighbors in need."

How Can You Help?

You can help the victims of these and other local disasters with a gift to the American Red Cross Local Disaster Relief Fund. Secure financial contributions can be made on-line at www.redcrossworcester.org or by sending a gift to the American Red Cross Local Disaster Relief Fund, 2000 Century Drive, Worcester, MA 01606. To become a Red Cross volunteer, please call us at 508-595-3700.Thank you.

Local Fires Displace 47 Residents in One Week

13 Families Permanently Displaced

Worcester, MA, November 6, 2007 - Most years, volunteers and paid staff from the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts spend the months of October and November training and preparing for the winter months, which are known to be the busy season for responses to local home fires. "Fire season", however, has come early for central Massachusetts residents this year as six fires in the past week alone have permanently displaced 47 residents.

The recent rash of fires began on October 31st, with a Southbridge fire located at 96 North Street, displacing three families. Five additional fires occurred within the following week, three on October 31st, two of which were in Worcester and one in Grafton, with two additional incidents following in Worcester on November 3rd and 4th. Theses fires come on the heels of 35 additional local fires that have displaced 199 residents since July 1st.

"The frequency of fires in the past seven days is a major concern to our local Chapter as we have not even approached the winter months," stated Nicole Valentine, director of emergency services for the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts. "Forty seven of our neighbors have lost their homes and personal belongings to fires, leaving their lives forever changed in mere seconds. We are urging the community to take a few moments to refresh their knowledge of a few simple fire safety tips in an effort to help to prevent additional disasters."

Red Cross volunteers continue to meet with each of the thirteen displaced families on a case by case basis to determine their disaster related needs. Caseworkers at the local Chapter are assisting each family by developing a service delivery plan to ensure that the individuals have a safe place to stay, meals to eat and clothing. Additional recovery assistance often includes mental health counseling, medical prescription replacements, infant supplies and referrals to agencies to assist with locating permanent housing, in addition to funds for security deposits and bedding and linens once a new home or apartment has been secured.

"This year's statistics are truly alarming. Our chapter remains committed to responding to help meet the needs of anyone in our community affected by the devastation of a home fire, and to empower people with the skills they need to keep their families safe from a fire before it happens," said Valentine. "However, we rely on the compassion and generosity of area residents to give us the financial resources to relieve suffering in our community. As the number of fires increase, so does the need for financial support of the Red Cross. With the Thanksgiving Holiday right around the corner, we hope the community will consider financial gifts to the local disaster relief fund which will allow us to continue to provide help to our neighbors during their time of need."

The Red Cross recommends the following to help prevent and prepare for home fires:

• Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home.
• Test smoke alarm batteries every month and change them once a year.
• Make sure everyone in your family knows at least two ways to escape from every room of your home.
• Practice your fire escape plan at least twice a year.
• Keep all potential sources of fuel like paper, clothing, bedding, or rugs at least three feet away from space heaters, stoves, or fireplaces.
• Portable heaters and fireplaces should never be left unattended. Turn off space heaters or fully extinguish the fire and embers before going to bed or leaving home.
• Never leave cooking food unattended.
• Keep anything that can catch fire-pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plastic bags, food packaging, and towels or curtains-away from your stovetop, oven or any appliance that generates heat.

How Can You Help?

You can help the victims of these and other local disasters with a gift to the American Red Cross Local Disaster Relief Fund. Secure financial contributions can be made on-line at www.redcrossworcester.org or by sending a gift to the American Red Cross Local Disaster Relief Fund, 2000 Century Drive, Worcester, MA 01606. Thank you.

Red Cross Continues Expanding Services to Residents in Southern California

People, equipment and supplies continue to stream into the region

Worcester, MA, October 24, 2007 — As wildfires continue to rage throughout southern California, destroying hundreds of homes and displacing hundreds of thousands of residents, the Red Cross is continuing to work with officials to support the relief effort.

Here is a snapshot of Red Cross services as of midnight, Tuesday:

• The Red Cross and its partners have opened nearly 2 dozen shelters across the region.
• 40 trucks full of supplies have arrived, bringing thousands of cots, blankets, toiletry kits and other needed items.
• 50 Mobile feeding vehicles have arrived with 25 more en route.
• Cleanup supplies are also en route. Supplies include rakes, shovels, and other useful equipment to help with cleanup in the affected communities.
• A large feeding kitchen will open today at Petco Field to support the shelters, mobile feeding and the feeding to the emergency workers.
• The local chapters have trained more than 1500 local volunteers to help with the effort.
• The national Red Cross has moved nearly 2000 additional workers to the area to help with feeding and sheltering efforts.

Local Response

As of Wednesday morning, eight volunteers from the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts have been deployed for two and three week assignments. Volunteers will be assisting in numerous activities based on their training, including mass care feeding and sheltering, mental health counseling, bulk distribution of material resources, and damage assessment.

As the Wildfires continue, the Red Cross offers help for those who may feel confused and anxious about the safety of their families and their homes.

The Red Cross urges all those who have evacuated or who expect to evacuate to register their well being on the Red Cross Safe and Well website, available at www.redcross.org. This Internet tool allows people in disaster-affected areas to register their well-being using several pre-scripted messages. Family and friends here in central Massachusetts can then log on and search for registered individuals to learn of their whereabouts and safety. People without access to a computer or without electricity or connectivity can call the Red Cross (1-800-REDCROSS) for help registering, or contact a loved one to register on their behalf.

Please note that the Safe and Well site safeguards the privacy of the disaster victim. Although these messages will be viewable by friends or family members who conduct a successful search, the site does not reveal a specific location or contact information.

The American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts Youth Program is pleased to have received grant funding from the Sovereign Bank "Spirit of Your Neighborhood Campaign" to offer support for more Red Cross Clubs in our schools! Thanks to Sovereign Bank, the ARC will better be able to provide high school, middle school and elementary aged youth clubs with more opportunities to develop and participate in service projects that impact their communities!

In addition the ARC will be able to offer more educational opportunities to club members, such as CPR, First Aid, Babysitting, HIV/AIDS prevention and Disaster Preparedness training. THANK YOU to Sovereign Bank for helping to enrich the education of our young people, promoting job skills and strengthening our community's health safety and community preparedness

For anyone interested in starting a school or church Red Cross Community Service Club please contact Sue Swanberg, Director of Youth Programs at swanbergs@usa.redcross.org

"Change Your Clock, Change Your Batteries!"

In September a new Red Cross Youth Club collaboration sprang into action, with a "Change you clock, Change your batteries!" neighborhood outreach campaign! Youth members (third grade through High School!) of the True Holiness Church Youth Mentor Red Cross Club, located on Chandler St. in Worcester, canvassed the neighborhood surrounding a recent house fire on Piedmont Street, distributing smoke detector batteries, fire safety and prevention information, and advice to change smoke detector batteries twice a year (same time we change our clocks for daylight savings!).

"All of the people were receptive & appreciative that the children were able to give them a free gift (the battery) & some very valuable information to help protect their families. I will definitely call it a success!" says Renee Gomes, sponsor of the newly formed collaboration between the youth group and the Red Cross. And this club is just getting started; they are now working on a fundraising project for Disaster Services and planning for a year of involvement in their community!

True Holiness Church is just one outstanding example of youth groups doing community service on behalf of the Red Cross. For more information about forming a Red Cross Community Service Club in your school, church or other organization involving young people, please contact Sue Swanberg, Director of Youth Programs, swanbergs@usa.redcross.org

Saint-Gobain Receives 2007 Corporate Community Partnership Award

At the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts’ 2007 Annual Meeting held on September 20, 2007, we were honored to present Saint-Gobain with a 2007 Corporate Community Partnership Award. Donna Zalauskas, Manager of Community Relations, was on hand to accept the award on behalf of her Saint-Gobain colleagues (including our Red Cross Board member, Dennis Allaire from Saint-Gobain who was not able to join us). We are so appreciative for the on-going support Saint-Gobain has given the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts for so many years. Saint-Gobain has shown a tremendous commitment as a community partner with our Chapter to help our neighbors in need, following both local and national disasters.

Saint-Gobain has been a sponsor of our Adopt-a-Day of Disaster Relief Program since its inception in 2001, as well as a major sponsor supporting our annual events (Golf Tournaments) and special events such as our 2006 Centennial Celebration (which honored our Chapter’s 100 year anniversary).

Since 2003, Saint-Gobain’s main parking lot entrance has hosted one of our most lucrative clothing bin sites. The proceeds received by our Chapter are used to fund our local disaster relief programs throughout central Massachusetts.

In addition, for many years, Saint-Gobain has offered our Chapter storage space to store our disaster-related surplus materials and equipment…fulfilling our much-needed warehousing needs. Throughout the years, Saint-Gobain has donated generously to the American Red Cross after each large disaster. The company also offers a matching gift program for their employees and retirees.

Donna Zalauskas also attended our Annual Meeting to present our Chapter with their Lead sponsorship for the 2007 Adopt-a-Day of Disaster Relief program.

Nationally and locally, corporate and employee-wide, Saint-Gobain’s utmost generosity has helped us serve our communities when lives are turned upside down, homes are lost and dreams are shattered. We are so grateful for their corporate partnership!

October Is Fire Prevention Month - Red Cross Urges Preparedness

52 Local Families Displaced by Home Fires Over Two Months Time

Worcester, MA, September 26, 2007 - Home fires are one of the most common disasters and cause more deaths than any other type of disaster in the United States. In honor of Fire Prevention Month, The American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts has issued the following safety tips to help to educate families about proper fire prevention planning.

"With all the attention received by major disasters, 4 out 5 Americans do not realize the most common disaster threat is not hurricanes or floods - it's home fires," stated Nicole Valentine, director of emergency services for the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts. "Over the past two months alone, 52 families in our community have lost their homes to a fire. We are urging our community to take a few minutes to familiarize themselves with some very basic safety tips that could save not only their property, but their lives as well."

Make Your Home Fire Safe

• Smoke alarms save lives. Install a smoke alarm outside each sleeping area and on each additional level of your home.
• If people sleep with doors closed, install smoke alarms inside sleeping areas, too.
• Use the test button to check each smoke alarm once a month. When necessary, replace batteries immediately. Replace all batteries at least once a year.
• Vacuum away cobwebs and dust from your smoke alarms monthly.
• Smoke alarms become less sensitive over time. Replace your smoke alarms every ten years.
• Consider having one or more working fire extinguishers in your home. Get training from the fire department in how to use them.
• Consider installing an automatic fire sprinkler system in your home.

Plan Your Escape Routes

• Determine at least two ways to escape from every room of your home.
• Consider escape ladders for sleeping areas on the second or third floor. Learn how to use them and store them near the window.
• Select a location outside your home where everyone would meet after escaping.
• Practice your escape plan at least twice a year.

Escape Safely

• Once you are out, stay out! Call the fire department from a neighbor's home
• If you see smoke or fire in your first escape route, use your second way out. If you must exit through smoke, crawl low under the smoke to your exit.
• If you are escaping through a closed door, feel the door before opening it. If it is warm, use your second way out.
• If smoke, heat, or flames block your exit routes, stay in the room with the door closed. Signal for help using a bright-colored cloth at the window. If there is a telephone in the room, call the fire department and tell them where you are.

"Fire Prevention Week is an ideal time for every household in our community to develop a plan to help ensure each person will know how to escape quickly and safely if a fire occurs," Valentine added. "The American Red Cross is committed not only to responding to help meet the needs of home fire victims, but also to teaching people the skills they need to keep their families safe from home fires and other disasters."

Americam Red Cross encourages every household to develop family communication plans before hurricane strikes

August 17, 2007: As Hurricane Dean continued its wrath of fury through the Caribbean, the local Chapter is reminding everyone to take steps to prepare their family communication plans before the disaster strikes.

During a hurricane, basic services including electricity and phone service may be disrupted. Due to widespread outages, service may not be restored for several days. During this critical time, family and friends may not be able to reach effected loved ones immediately. Your initiative to encourage loved ones to establish contact quickly and place a phone call to a designated person will save them from making multiple calls and can help alleviate your anxiety about their well-being. This will also help to reduce the overwhelming number of phone calls that often times overload the system following a disaster.

“The need to create a family communication plan is critical,” stated Nicole Valentine, director of emergency services for the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts. “During the unprecedented hurricane season of 2005, with four hurricanes in just six weeks, the American Red Cross received more than 300,000 phone calls – most of which regarded people seeking loved ones.”

The American Red Cross Safe and Well Web site, accessible via www.redcross.org, is an internet-based tool that families can integrate into their family communications plan and also one that the Red Cross will use to help disaster victims communicate from inside the disaster-affected areas to loved ones outside. People within a disaster area can register themselves as "safe and well" by selecting and posting standard messages for friends and family that indicate they are safe and well at a shelter, home or hotel, and will make contact when they are able. Concerned family members who know the person's phone number (home, cell or work) or a complete home address can search for the messages posted by those who self-register.

Develop Your Communication Plan Before an Emergency Happens:

• Make a list of those family and friends you want to contact should you be affected by a disaster.
• Your contact list should include names, street addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses.
• Identify methods you will use to re-establish contact after a disaster. Include several options such as phone call, email, text message, mail, Safe and Well Website, Contact Loved Ones voice-messaging service.

During an Emergency, Put Your Plan into Action:

• Initiate the plan ahead of forecasted events
• Contact loved ones if you move or evacuate before or after disaster strikes
• Contact and update loved ones as soon after a disaster as possible
• Keep loved ones informed if your situation changes.

Preparing for a disaster, such as a hurricane, ahead of time can help alleviate the stress you may face during the storm, and ease the burden on your family and loved ones. For more information regarding how individuals and families can prepare for disasters visit www.redcrossworcester.org or contact your local Red Cross chapter.

Peru earthquake - preliminary emergency appeal launched to assist survivors

Geneva, 17 August, 2007: The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has issued a preliminary emergency appeal for 1.6 million Swiss francs (US$ 1.3 million/€980,000) to support the Peruvian Red Cross (PRC) operation for survivors of the strong earthquake which devastated regions south of Lima, the capital of Peru, on 15 August. The funds will be used to supply some 20,000 people (4,000 families) with emergency items including tents, blankets, jerrycans, clothes, bedding and plastic sheeting.

"Immediate needs for the survivors include shelter – it’s winter now in Peru, and people need to be protected from the cold. They also need access to clean water," explains Peter Rees, acting deputy director of disaster management, at the International Federation’s Secretariat in Geneva. "The funds will also finance vital psychological support to help survivors overcome the trauma of the catastrophe."

According to official figures, 437 people have died, more than 800 people are injured, and nearly 17,000 houses have been destroyed. It’s estimated that the town of Pisco, with a population of just over 54,000 people, has suffered around 70% destruction of its infrastructure.

Roads have been very severely damaged and telecommunications remain very difficult. The Peruvian Civil Defence System, (INDECI) has set up a logistical centre at the air base in Pisco to dispatch relief to the affected areas. All health centres and hospitals have been put on maximum alert, all doctors have been requested to make themselves available and all health services for the injured are free of charge.

The Peruvian Red Cross has now mobilized all its resources for this emergency operation. Additional teams of volunteers trained in first aid, and damage and needs assessments, including medical personnel and ambulances have been sent into the rural areas of Ica, the worst-affected region, from Arequipa. The Peruvian Red Cross Lima branch has also sent an additional team to support the operation in Pisco. A PRC national intervention team, along with a logistician, was sent in yesterday to do initial assessments in Pisco and Ica.

The Federation’s Pan American Disaster Response Unit (PADRU), based in Panama, sent a plane loaded with relief items (tents, blankets, plastic sheeting, jerrycans) for 2,000 families to Peru and has deployed two disaster management delegates to assist with the emergency operation. The International Federation immediately released 250,000 Swiss francs (US$205,000/ €153,000) from its Disaster Relief Emergency Fund to support the Peruvian Red Cross relief operation.

Red Cross Partners Launch Response to Earthquake in Peru

Following the 7.9 magnitude earthquake that struck the central coast of Peru on Wednesday, August 15, the American Red Cross is positioning resources to assist their Peruvian counterparts as needed.

The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (International Federation), American Red Cross and other Red Cross national societies pre-position relief supplies in Panama for emergencies in the region. Two planes loaded with tents, plastic sheeting, blankets and jerrycans (for clean water) for 2,000 families will be sent from Panama to the city of Pisco on Thursday evening. Kathleen Martin, an American Red Cross disaster management delegate on loan to the International Federation's Pan American Disaster Response Unit in Panama, is actively involved in the earthquake response.

Immediately following the quake, the Peruvian Red Cross deployed disaster response workers to Pisco and Ica, the cities nearest the epicenter of the quake, to assess the damage and evaluate the needs. The International Federation mobilized three disaster management delegates and a logistician to support the Peruvian Red Cross relief efforts

"The first impression of the team is that the damage is severe, especially to houses. It took them nearly seven hours to reach Pisco from Lima, a trip that normally takes two," said Giorgio Ferrario, International Federation Regional Representative for South America in Lima.

While the American Red Cross does not accept individually donated goods, the Red Cross is accepting financial donations for this disaster. To donate, call 1-800-RedCross, or for Spanish call 800-257-7575.

The Peruvian Red Cross and the American Red Cross are two of 185 national societies in the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. In emergencies the assistance of sister societies is requested through the International Federation in Geneva. The American Red Cross can assist by mobilizing trained workers, relief supplies and financial resources.

Fallon Clinic Foundation Supports Workforce Development Healthcare Training Programs

Thank you to Fallon Clinic Foundation for their generous $5,000 grant supporting the American Red Cross Workforce Development Healthcare Training Programs.

The American Red Cross Healthcare training programs were established to help satisfy the substantiated need for supplemental health caregivers in the central Massachusetts region and beyond. The Certified Nurse Assistant/Home Health Aide (CNA/HHA) training offers individuals the education and skills necessary to enable participant certification by the State of Massachusetts and subsequent entry-level employment in the healthcare field. The American Red Cross continues to evaluate the changing needs of the healthcare community and responded with new workplace training programs (Acute Care, EKG, Phlebotomy and MAP) to better meet those needs.

We are grateful to Fallon Clinic Foundation for their support of these valuable training opportunities, improving our communities.

Red Cross Providing HIV/AIDS Education for Girls!

The Red Cross is pleased to have received funding through the Women's Initiative of the United Way of Central Massachusetts to provide HIV/AIDS prevention education for adolescent girls. Reflecting the focus of the Women's Initiative to eliminate violence in the lives of girls, the Red Cross is working with collaborating youth based agencies to provide tools to support, strengthen and build the health and safety of these young people. Already working with the Salvation Army, Girl's Inc. and the Boys and Girls Club of Worcester, we are looking forward to the future expansion of this program to enable youth to make healthy life choices. For more information about Red Cross HIV/AIDS Education and Prevention Programs please contact Sue Swanberg at swanbergs@usa.redcross.org.

New School Red Cross Clubs are making an impact!!

The Red Cross Clubs at the Abby Kelley Foster Charter School and South High School of Worcester, the Devereux School in Rutland and St. Bernadette's School of Northborough are wrapping up an extremely impressive first year of community service activity! Some of their fabulous accomplishments include: teaching young students the importance of hand washing and personal hygiene with the Red Cross "Scrubby Bear" program; facilitating school wide clothing drives; running both toiletry and baby food drives for local agencies; designing and delivering "Healthy Heart" valentines for seniors; sponsoring Babysitting training at their schools; organizing a Diversity Appreciation Day; raising funds for the International Red Cross Measles Initiative (vaccination program for children of Africa) as well as for local disaster relief and much, much more!

The Red Cross is looking forward to see what these talented and motivated young people will do next as plans for the 2007 school year have already begun! Anyone interested in forming a Red Cross Club at their school is encouraged to contact Sue Swanberg, Director of Youth Programs at 508-595-3710 or swanbergs@usa.redcross.org.

The above photo is Abbey Kelley Foster Charter Students donating clothes collected during their recent school-wide clothing drive.

The American Red Cross Has Cool Tips for a Hot Summer of Fun

Worcester, MA - June 12, 2007 – Soon, everyone in central Massachusetts will have one thing in mind – how to stay cool under the hot summer sun. If you’re like most people, when the temperature starts to soar, you think about heading to the coolest place in town, the pool or the beach. But before you go, your local Red Cross wants to remind you that a cool dip could leave you in hot water if you don’t practice water safety.

“We are all looking forward to a lot of fun with our family and friends this summer,” says Nicole Valentine, spokesperson for the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts. “We just have to remember it’s not fun if it’s not safe. With a little planning and a few safety tips, including the most important “arms reach supervision” rule, we can all beat the heat and enjoy ourselves at the same time.” Remember these simple tips for a great way to cool down in the water:

• Learn to swim and swim well. Contact the American Red Cross of Central MA for information on learning how to swim.
• Never leave small children unattended near water – not even the bathtub – not even for a moment! Adults should practice “reach supervision,” which means to always be within arm’s length when a child is near water in case of emergency.
• Keep lifesaving gear handy. Always have on hand a lifejacket, rope, pole or other object that can be thrown to a person in trouble. Remember to have a first aid kit, cordless phone and emergency contact information by the pool.
• Know when it’s too dangerous. If you, or someone you are swimming with, appear to be too cold, too far from safety, been exposed to too much sun, or had too much strenuous activity, it is time to head for shore or signal for help.
• Eliminate temptation. Backyard pools should have self-closing, self-latching gates that remain locked when the pool is not being used. Kiddie pools should be emptied and toys removed immediately after use. Empty water pails and buckets so small children cannot fall in and drown.
• Know what you’re getting into. Check local tides, current and other condition which could be dangerous before entering open bodies of water.
• Alcohol and water do not mix. Never drink alcohol while swimming or boating.

For more information on summer safety tips or Learn to Swim classes, contact the American Red Cross at 508-595-3700.

You've Got the Power

Learning basic first aid and CPR/Automated External Defibrillator (AED) can quite possibly mean the difference between life and death for someone suffering from Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) or other medical emergency. The American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts advises that being able to administer first aid and CPR/AED during the first few minutes of a medical emergency is crucial to the survival and recovery of a victim. Having these skills allows you to become a vital first responder when help is needed.

“We want the public to know that everyone has the power to save a life. At least one person in every household and on every office floor should be trained and certified in first aid and CPR/AED,” says Nicole Valentine, spokesperson for the American Red Cross of Central Massachusetts. “On average, it takes emergency officials several minutes to arrive on scene. For someone who is choking or has stopped breathing that may be too late. By learning simple rescue skills, you can go from a helpless bystander to a person with the ability to take control help someone during an emergency.”

First aid and CPR/AED are commonly taught to everyday people who may be the only ones able to respond during the crucial first few minutes of an accident or medical emergency. Nearly everyone is capable of learning and becoming certified in first aid and CPR/AED. Becoming trained and certified gives the average person the knowledge and skills essential to lessen the effect of injury or sudden illness and helps sustain life until professional responders arrive.

The Red Cross offers thorough and flexible training programs, which help you prepare for emergencies and life-threatening situations. Courses are available for administering help to infants, children and adults, as well as, for fulfilling training requirements for workplaces, and for professional rescuers. To find out how you can have the power to save a life, contact our Health and Safety Services office today at 508-595-3700.

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