Red Cross Helping Oklahoma Tornado Victims With Shelter, Food, Relief Supplies

Posted on May 21, 2013 by American Red Cross Northeast Wisconsin Chapter

The American Red Cross is working around the clock to help people in Oklahoma after Monday’s devastating tornadoes with shelters, food, water and supplies, and more workers, supplies and equipment are moving into the area today.

“Our thoughts and sympathy are with all those impacted by these horrific tornadoes,” said Trevor Riggen, vice president of Disaster Operations and Logistics for the Red Cross. “Specialized Red Cross disaster teams are helping now and will be helping for weeks to come as people in Oklahoma recover from these storms.”
from twitter account of: @redcrossokc - Red Cross Oklahoma

from twitter account of: @redcrossokc – Red Cross Oklahoma

The Red Cross deployed almost 30 emergency response vehicles to distribute food and relief supplies and more are on alert. Two Southern Baptist Convention kitchens and kitchen support trailers will join the relief effort with the ability to serve tens of thousands of meals a day. Emergency aid stations will open where people can get food and snacks, mental health and health services and information about what help is available. The Red Cross is supporting first responders and working with local and state officials to make sure people get the help they need. Meanwhile, the Red Cross continues to provide shelter in Shawnee and other parts of the Oklahoma City area following storms over the weekend.

SAFE AND WELLThe Red Cross has several ways people can let loved ones know they are safe. They can register on the Red Cross Safe and Well website by visiting www.redcross.org and clicking on the “List Yourself or Search Registrants” link under “How to Get Help”. Those who can’t access a computer can call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) and a Red Cross operator can help them register. Disaster victims can also update their Facebook and Twitter status through the Safe and Well website or visit www.redcross.org/safeandwell on their smart phone and clickon the “List Yourself as Safe and Well” or “Search for friends and family” link.

DOWNLOAD TORNADO APP. If someone has the Red Cross tornado app on their mobile device, they can use the “I’m Safe” button to let loved ones know they are okay. The app can be found in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store for Androidby searching for American Red Cross. It includes a high-pitched siren and tornado warning alert that signals when a NOAA tornado warning has been issued, as well as also an all-clear alert that lets users know when a tornado warning has expired or has been cancelled. Content is preloaded so users have access to critical information even without mobile connectivity, including locations of open Red Cross shelters and the one-touch “I’m Safe” messaging to let loved ones know they are okay through social media outlets. More than a million alerts were sent from the Red Cross tornado app with 340 separate tornado warning/watch notices on Sunday and Monday as tornadoes hit in Oklahoma and other states.

HOW TO HELPThose who would like to help people affected by disasters like tornadoes, floods and other crises can make a donation to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. People can donate by visiting www.redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. These donations help provide food, shelter and emotional support to those affected by disasters.

BLOOD SUPPLIESThe Red Cross stands ready to help meet the blood needs of patients in and around Oklahoma City if needed, and there is currently enough blood on the shelves to meet patient demands. The Red Cross is a secondary supplier of blood products to hospitals in the affected area in Oklahoma. People with type O negative blood are encouraged to give blood when they are able. All eligible blood donors can schedule an appointment to give in the days and weeks ahead by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or visiting www.redcrossblood.org to help ensure blood is available when people need it.

CORPORATIONS HELP The Red Cross is able to respond quickly when emergencies like this happen with the help of corporations who are members of the organization’s Annual Disaster Giving (ADGP) and Disaster Responder programs. Program members pledge donations on an ongoing basis to allow the Red Cross to pre-position supplies and be ready to take immediate action when disasters occur.

Current ADGP members are:

3M; Altria Group; Aon; AT&T; Bank of America; BNY Mellon; Briggs & Stratton Corporation; Caterpillar Inc.; CHS Foundation; Cisco Foundation; Citi Foundation; The Clorox Company; Community Safety Foundation funded by AAA Northern California, Nevada and Utah Insurance Exchange; ConAgra Foods Foundation; Costco Wholesale Corporation; Darden Restaurants, Inc.; Dell Inc.; Discover; Disney; Dr Pepper Snapple Group; Edison International; FedEx Corporation; GE Foundation; Hewlett-Packard Company Foundation; The Home Depot Foundation; Humble Bundle; jcpenney; John Deere Foundation; Johnson Controls; Kimberly-Clark Corporation; Kraft Foods Group; Lowe’s Companies, Inc.; Medtronic; Meijer; Merck Co. Foundation; Mondelēz International; National Grid; Nationwide Insurance Foundation; Northrop Grumman; Optum; PepsiCo and the PepsiCo Foundation; Southwest Airlines; Sprint; State Farm; State Street; Target; Texas Instruments; The TJX Companies, Inc.; UnitedHealthcare; University of Phoenix; UPS; US Airways; Walmart; WellPoint Foundation; Wells Fargo.

Disaster Responder members include:

American Express; AstraZeneca; AXA Foundation; Delta Air Lines; Farmers Insurance; Ford Motor Company; General Motors Foundation; H&R Block; Ingersoll Rand; Morgan Stanley; New Balance Foundation; Northwestern Mutual and the Northwestern Mutual Foundation; PuroClean; Ryder Charitable Foundation; Starbucks Coffee Company and Starbucks Foundation; Sunoco; Tyson Foods, Inc.; U.S. Bank; Western Union Foundation.

About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visitredcross.orgor visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

Filed under: Disaster Services | Tagged: , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

Red Cross Helping Tornado Victims Across the Midwest

Posted on May 20, 2013 by American Red Cross Northeast Wisconsin Chapter

Our thoughts and concerns go to everyone in Oklahoma following this horrific tornado.

The American Red Cross has one shelter open in Moore and is working on locating others; we continue to operate three shelters that were opened Sunday in the Oklahoma City area following the storms on Sunday.

Red Cross volunteers are out tonight with food and supplies supporting first responders.

More than 25 emergency response vehicles are positioned to move at first light Tuesday, and we expect that the number will increase. The Red Cross is also sending in kitchen support trailers to support the upcoming operation to provide meals to those forced out of their homes.

People in Oklahoma near the tornado area are encouraged to connect with one another and let loved ones know that they are safe. This can be done through the I’m Safe feature of the free Red Cross tornado app. In addition, if you have access to a computer, go to redcross.org/safeandwell to list yourself as safe. If not, you can text loved ones or call a family member and ask them to register you on the site.

This has been a major disaster, and the Red Cross will be there for the people in this state and this community. People who wish to make a donation to support the Red Cross response can visit redcross.org, dial 1-800-REDCROSS or text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

Filed under: Disaster Services | Tagged: , , | Leave a Comment »

DINE-OUT TO SUPPORT DISASTER RELIEF

Posted on May 15, 2013 by American Red Cross Northeast Wisconsin Chapter

Eastern Wisconsin Red Cross, Dine for Disaster Event Banner

Local Restaurants & Patrons Pair Taste-buds and Disaster Relief Together

Now in its sixth year, more than 100 participating eateries will participate in Dine for Disaster throughout Eastern Wisconsin, from the Illinois border, to Upper Peninsula Michigan communities. On Thursday, May 16, 2013, participants will donate a portion of sales to benefit their local American Red Cross disaster relief and community disaster prevention & education.

While the Red Cross responds to big disasters such as floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes each year, the most frequent threat people face is a fire in their own home. In fact, Disaster Action Team workers respond to an emergency every nine minutes around the United States. Locally, it was nearly 500 last year!

Just this past weekend, it was seven fire calls!  Red Cross responders turn compassion into action. They form a dynamic team that is empowered to deal with crises throughout our communities. When a disaster strikes, we provide a place to sleep, warm meals, clothing, emotional support and hope. Through the support of our communities, we can offer individuals and families basic emergency needs to recovery guidance.

Dave Jones, Director of Operations for McDonald’s in Racine and Pat Beimborn, co-owner of Los Banditos in Green Bay are co-chairing Dine for Disaster 2013. Both have a personal reason for supporting the organization. WI.  “Many years ago, my family had an emergency.” Dave Jones continued, “The Red Cross was there for me when I needed it and now I will always try to be there to help the Red Cross when I can.” During college Beimborn started donating blood and was later on the volunteer Board of Directors. He had a front-row seat to the depth of commitment and passion the staff and volunteers have for the mission. “They set an example for the spirit of caring for others, most of whom they will never know, that is so much a part of the culture of this area. Whether it’s a fire, a blood drive or a natural disaster, Red Cross volunteers are always ready and willing to lend a helping hand. Those volunteers aren’t looking for recognition. They just seem to know that it’s the right thing to do and they’re glad to do it.”  Beimborn continued, “…and for local restaurants to recognize their commitment to the community is a natural fit.”

For the third year, Society Insurance is the corporate sponsor for Dine for Disaster. Their financial support provides promotional materials for the participants.

Check the website for a list of participating restaurants: www.redcross.org/dinefordisasterwisconsin

About Local Chapters:

The Southeastern Wisconsin Chapter of the American Red Cross serves eight counties with a goal to prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. To learn more about Red Cross programs, volunteer opportunities, and how you can help, contact the Chapter at 414-342-8680 or visit redcross.org/sewisconsin on the web, twitter.com/RedCrossSeWi and facebook.com/RedCross.SoutheastWI and our blog redcrosssewiblog.org.

The Northeast Wisconsin Chapter serves 20-counties throughout northeast Wisconsin and the Michigan boarder communities. To learn more about Red Cross programs, volunteer opportunities, and how you can help, contact your local office or the regional headquarters at 920-231-3590 or visit  http://www.redcross.org/newisconsin, on Facebook (American Red Cross – Northeast Wisconsin Region), Twitter (NEWRedCross) and our blog (newredcrossblog.org).

Filed under: Disaster Services, Fundraising, Special Events | Tagged: , , , , | Leave a Comment »

You’re Not Going to Want to Miss This: Trace Adkins Teams Up with American Red Cross!

Posted on May 14, 2013 by American Red Cross Northeast Wisconsin Chapter

Wow! What an end to All Star Celebrity Apprentice. The last two contestants are standing and it’s Trace Adkins and Penn Jillette! Penn’s a great competitor, but we love Trace and the voice he’s given to disaster victims the last several weeks. All of us at the Red Cross are so proud of Trace and what he’s accomplished on behalf of our organization and all the people we serve. He’s represented the Red Cross with integrity and lots of heart and we’re cheering him on to the finish line.

ImageWe’re not just cheering him on, we’re ready to put our money where our mouth is-literally-and we hope you will too. This week’s task involved Trace and Penn developing custom ice cream flavors for the Walgreens Delish brand. Team Trace developed “Maple Macadamia Mash Up“, based on his favorite candy flavor-maple nut. (Team Trace also had to create a commercial for the ice cream, which featured Gary Busey busting a move because the ice cream is so good. I can’t wait to see the final product next week.)

If Trace’s flavor is the top seller this week, he’ll win an extra $100,000 for the Red Cross and disaster victims around the nation. That’s 10,000 meals for disaster victims or 20,000 blankets for people who stay in our shelters. That also means you don’t have to ask me twice to buy ice cream.

IMG_20130513_183313

(Green Bay) Kace, Nevaeh, and Cienna enjoying their Maple Macadamia Mash Up ice cream!

So get yourself down to a Walgreens store this week and pick up Maple Macadamia Mash Up. When you do, make sure you tweet some photos of yourself enjoying that creamy goodness. Not only will you help the Red Cross and propel Trace to the top of the boardroom, but you can also rest assured that, somewhere in America, Gary Busey is doing a happy dance. That should make everyone smile.

Filed under: Fundraising | Tagged: , , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

A Simple Message of Thank You…….

Posted on May 13, 2013 by American Red Cross Northeast Wisconsin Chapter

By Lisa Stanchfield, Program Services Specialist

photo TY - no last name

Thursday, May 2 we responded to a fire that displaced 30 people in Fond du Lac.

On Friday, during the day we had about half of those people, adults and kids in our back room until we could work with the family on where we were putting them for the weekend.

We gave the children coloring books to use, I rented some movies, but one of the things they like was drawing on the dry erase board. I found the message that one of the children left on the dry erase board rather touching.

These are the moments I really appreciate working for such a great organization.

Filed under: Disaster Services, youth | Tagged: , , , , | Leave a Comment »

1st National Bank “HERO” for local American Red Cross

Posted on May 7, 2013 by American Red Cross Northeast Wisconsin Chapter

By Vicki Jenks, American Red Cross Board Member and Volunteer

On Monday, April 29th, the local American Red Cross received a most generous $1,000 gift from 1st National Bank, presented by President, Tom Jensen.

Vicki Jenks, Joyce Petit, Thomas L. Jensen and Betsy

Pictured left to right along with Tom are:  Vicki P. Jenks, American Red Cross of Northeast Wisconsin Board Member, Joyce Petit, long-time Red Cross Disaster Action Team member, and Betsy Wandtke, Red Cross Major Gifts Officer.

Known well as a supportive community organization, 1st National Bank originally became involved with HEROES last year holding a Casual For a Cause Day with all donations assisting the local American Red Cross work in Green Lake and Waushara counties.  The expansion to official HERO ($1,000 donation) allows the Red Cross to further its work both in local disaster relief and also Service to the Armed Forces (SAF).

 “The community of Berlin is marvelously supportive in countless ways. As a relative newcomer to east central Wisconsin, every day holds a heartwarming story of the gigantic hearts of its altruistic, thoughtful citizens,” said Vicki P. Jenks, HEROES volunteer coordinator, Wild Rose.

Every 9 minutes in the US, an American Red Cross Disaster Action Team (D.A.T.) responds to some sort of disaster—the most common being RESIDENTIAL FIRES.  The local D.A.T. team springs immediately into action offering such things as temporary shelter, food, clothing, and bedding and linens.  Additionally, the Red Cross can replace prescription medications and vision wear lost in the fire.  Perhaps most importantly, however, is the INVALUABLE EMOTIONAL SUPPORT the team members provide.  Long after the initial disaster, the Red Cross continues its follow through.

Although Service to the Armed Forces (S.A.F.) has been an integral program to the Red Cross since 1905, it is new to HEROES this year.  The American Red Cross is the only entity in the world mandated by Congress to validate and relay emergency messages to military service member across the globe.  On average, 400 emergency messages are relayed daily.  Perhaps a service member is able to arrive home in time for a funeral of a family member due to the assistance of the Red Cross.   Additionally, Red Cross volunteers work in our two regional VA hospitals in Iron Mountain and Milwaukee.  Closer to home, volunteers assist distributing Holiday Mail for HEROES at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in King.

 

Filed under: Disaster Services, Fundraising, Services to Armed Forces, Volunteers | Tagged: , , , , | Leave a Comment »

National Nurses Week is May 6 – 12

Posted on May 6, 2013 by American Red Cross Northeast Wisconsin Chapter

ThankYouECard

National Nurses Week is May 6 – 12, a time set aside every year to recognize the many ways the nation’s nurses work to save lives and improve the health of millions. During National Nurses Week, the American Red Cross recognizes the more than 20,000 nurses and student nurses who serve the Red Cross today.

“Nurses have always been a cornerstone of the American Red Cross,” said Judy Gregory, Disaster Services Director. “Red Cross nurses have come to the aid of others during times of disaster and conflict since Jane Delano began the Red Cross Nursing Service in 1909. During National Nurses Week, we celebrate Red Cross nurses in Northeast Wisconsin and across the United States.”

Today nurses serve directly as part of Red Cross disaster response teams, at health fairs, volunteering in military clinics and hospitals, manning first aid stations and promoting blood donations.

Nurses also teach and help develop different courses like CPR and First Aid, Disaster Health Services, Nurse Assistant Training, Babysitting and Family Caregiving. They serve in management and supervisory roles in Red Cross chapters and blood regions and in leadership roles on local Red Cross boards and the national Board of Governors.

BECOME A RED CROSS NURSE If you are an RN or LPN/LVN, consider becoming a Red Cross volunteer. Student  nurses are also welcome.  Contact your local Red Cross to learn about volunteer openings in your community.

Filed under: Volunteers | Tagged: , , | Leave a Comment »

Next Page »
Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.