During local disasters here in the St Louis Area of the American Red Cross, I am the “runner”. I start my day at Sam’s then spend the day running around in many different directions. When I pull up somewhere, everyone is happy to see me because I’ve got the food and supplies. When Missouri was devastated with strong storms and tornadoes I drove down to Fredericktown, daily, with supplies from the St. Louis area to help feed hundreds of people. The entire town lost power! There were blue tarps over most of the roofs and trees were tossed all over like toothpicks dropped on a floor. I was reminded of Florida.

 

Because of donations by people, the American Red Cross was able to feed Fredericktown. Because of donations, we were able to feed the city of Winfield in the summer of 2008. Because of donations we were able to deliver bagged lunches to the people in University City cleaning up after the flash flood in September of 2008. Because of donations by people like you, we were able to feed thousands of sandbaggers trying to save their cities. The list goes on and on. The American Red Cross cannot survive without the assistance of the community. I personally have seen donations in action. To those who have donated, I thank you as do those who received the support they needed to rebuild. A person cannot survive very long without food.

So this holiday season, consider purchasing a Meal for a Disaster Victim from the Holiday Giving Catalog. Within hours of when disaster strikes the Red Cross is there, providing meals and safe shelters. While families are struggling to rebuild their lives, Red Cross volunteers provide meals that will keep them strong and give them much-needed energy for the challenging days ahead. Just $20 can provide a warm meal for two people and help stock our feeding trucks and kitchens this holiday season to make sure no child or family goes hungry when disaster strikes.

 

 Ann Christmas