A time to recognize everyday heroes
DES MOINES — The American Red Cross is recognizing the country’s everyday heroes during Red Cross Month.
“Everyday heroes help those in need in Iowa,” said Leslie Schaffer, regional executive for the Iowa region. “They are our volunteers, our blood donors, people who take our classes or those who make a financial contribution to help us help others. During Red Cross Month we thank them for their support.”
March has been recognized as Red Cross Month for more than 70 years. All of our presidents, including President Barack Obama, have designated March as Red Cross Month to recognize how the American Red Cross helps people across the country and around the world. On Thursday, March 5, Governor Terry Branstad will sign a proclamation declaring March as Red Cross Month in Iowa.
The Red Cross responds to nearly 70,000 disasters big and small in this country every year. It provides 24-hour support to members of the military, veterans and their families at home and around the world; collects and distributes about 40 percent of the nation’s blood supply and trains millions of people in first aid, water safety and other life-saving skills.
Here in the Iowa region, the Red Cross has responded to 137 local emergencies, mostly single and multi-family fires since Jan. 1, assisting 363 individuals. In fiscal year 2014, Iowa region Red Cross volunteers responded to 527 disasters, assisted 383 military families and trained 48,345 people in lifesaving skills. And, people from this area donated 43,789 units of blood.
The Iowa Region has also partnered with various organizations across the state, including the Iowa State Marshal’s office, to install 564 smoke alarms as part of the Red Cross Home Fire Preparedness Campaign.
“This month is a great time for people to become part of the Red Cross.” Schaffer said. “They can become a Red Cross volunteer, work on a preparedness plan for their household, give blood or take a Red Cross class.”
The Red Cross is not a government agency and relies on donations of time, money and blood to do its work. An average of 91 cents of every dollar the Red Cross spends is invested in humanitarian services and programs.
