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Local Red Cross Chapter Responds to Help House Fire Victims in Portville and Brotcon, NY

The Southwestern NY American Red Cross Disaster Action Team (DAT) responded to provide disaster relief following a house fires on April 26^th in Portville and Brocton.

DAT volunteers Mike Johnson of Salamanca and Marion Boyce of Allegany was on scene to provide the initial disaster assistance in Portville and Charlie Meeder provided assistance in Brocton. Temporary housing, clothing, and meals are services typically offered to address emergency needs of the family. The local Red Cross chapter will continue working with the families and their recovery process if additional services or referrals are necessary.

All disaster assistance offered by the American Red Cross is complimentary and made possible by generous contributions from the American people and residents of Cattaraugus and Chautauqua Counties. The United Way organizations of Cattaraugus and Chautauqua Counties also provide financial support to the local Red Cross mission.

Hurricane Sandy- Six Months Later

The American Red Cross today issued a six-month progress report on its work to help people affected by Superstorm Sandy.
“In the six months since Sandy devastated homes, communities and families in New York and New Jersey, signs of progress and hope can be seen throughout the region,” said Gail McGovern, president and CEO of the Red Cross. “Recovery from this storm will be a marathon, not a sprint, but I am encouraged by the determination of the people I meet, and Red Cross will be there every day to help them thanks to the generosity of the American public.” 

In the days after the storm came ashore, the Red Cross was able to immediately launch a large-scale emergency relief effort – the largest U.S. disaster response by the Red Cross in more than five years. After weeks of providing emergency relief, the Red Cross has a long-term recovery operation underway today. At the request of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other government partners, the Red Cross is working with about 9,000 families whose homes were destroyed or severely damaged.

The Red Cross is helping these families find new places to live, clean mold from their water-logged homes, get emotional support during their struggle and financial support as they work to put their lives back together. Trained Red Cross workers are meeting one-on-one with people to help provide assistance with home repairs, rent, utility deposits and available social service programs.

The Red Cross is also giving grant money to other non-profit groups to support the help they are providing to those affected by Sandy. This includes giving nearly $6 million in grants to three food banks in New York to help ensure people continue to get the food they need. A grant of $500,000 has been given to Operation Hope to provide assistance and financial counseling to survivors. Another $5 million has gone to a mold remediation program to help New York residents clean up their homes.

In these past six months more than 17,000 Red Cross disaster workers – about 90 percent of them volunteers - have responded to help those affected by Sandy. The Red Cross has:
Served more than 17 million meals and snacks
Distributed more than 7 million relief items such as cold weather items and clean-up supplies
Provided almost 113,000 health services and emotional support contacts for people living in very tough conditions
Provided more than 81,000 shelter stays.
Approximately $302 million was donated to the Red Cross as of April 18 to help those affected by Sandy, and the Red Cross has spent or made commitments to spend about $192 million, which is nearly two-thirds of the contributions to date.

”We want to spend the money people donated for Sandy quickly, but more importantly, we want to spend it wisely,” McGovern said. “It’s important to make sure some money is available for needs no one can predict right now. However long it takes, we are committed that money donated for Sandy will be used to help individuals and communities affected by this storm.”

The six-month report and other information on the Red Cross Sandy relief and recovery efforts can be found at www.redcross.org/sandy-response.

Red Cross Celebrates Volunteers During National Volunteer Week

This National Volunteer Week, April 21-27, the American Red Cross of Southwestern New York is celebrating its dedicated volunteers and partners. These volunteers power the American Red Cross, making it possible for the organization to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies.

“Without volunteers, the American Red Cross could not provide the much needed services in our communities – they help us make a difference” stated Kathy Burch, Assistant Executive Director.

Each year, Allegany, Cattaraugus and Chautauqua County Red Cross volunteers bring food, shelter, comfort and hope to nearly 300 people faced with rebuilding after house fires, floods and other disasters.  

Volunteers are central to the work of the Red Cross in Southwestern New York and in communities across the country, as on average, the Red Cross has 15 volunteers for every one employee. According to the Independent Sector, the 2012 value of volunteer time is $22.14/hour, further evidence of the tremendous value and impact volunteers hold for nonprofits such as the Red Cross. 

Red Cross volunteers—

·         Teach first aid, CPR, swimming and other lifesaving skills

·         Respond to disasters and reconnect families separated by disasters or conflict

·         Support blood drives across the country

·         Help veterans, members of the military and their families in the U.S. and overseas

Now, volunteering for the Red Cross is easier than ever thanks to a new system called Volunteer Connection. This online system is easy to use and better allows new volunteers to match their skills and interests to needs across the organization.

Right now the American Red Cross of Southwestern New York especially needs people who are willing to help on Disaster Action Teams, support blood drives in their local community, help in local Red Cross offices, and help veterans and members of the military.  

Red Cross volunteers are united by their service and the feeling that in changing others’ lives, their lives are also changed. People interested in volunteering can go to www.redcross.org/support/volunteer to search and apply for opportunities in their community. The Volunteer Connection System was made possible thanks to a generous grant from W.W. Grainger, Inc.  Or you may contact the Red Cross of Southwestern New York in Jamestown at 325 East 4^th Street, or call 716-664-5115; in Olean at 452 North Barry Street, or call 716-372-5800; or in Wellsville at 112 North Main Street or call 585-593-1531. 

Local Red Cross Chapter Responds to Help House Fire Victims in Cuba, NY

The Southwestern NY American Red Cross Disaster Action Team (DAT) responded to provide disaster relief following a house fire in Cuba on Monday, April 22^nd.

DAT volunteer Pat Jung of Wellsville and District Manager Darlene Wells was on scene to provide the initial disaster assistance. Temporary housing, clothing, and meals are services typically offered to address emergency needs. The local Red Cross chapter will continue working with the family of three and their recovery process if additional services or referrals are necessary.

All disaster assistance offered by the American Red Cross is complimentary and made possible by generous contributions from the American people and residents of Allegany County. The United Way organizations of Allegany County also provide financial support to the local Red Cross mission.

SWNY Red Cross Deploying a Volunteer to Boston

Response efforts continue in Boston and Texas

BUFFALO, NY, April 19, 2013 - The American Red Cross is supporting people in West, Texas after the plant explosion there while continuing to help first responders and those affected by the marathon bombings which occurred earlier this week in Boston.

Volunteer Dominic DiGirolamo, of Belmont, (Disaster Mental Health) will leave Friday for afternoon for Boston to provide emotional support.

MARATHON BOMBINGS In Boston, the Red Cross is providing emotional support and health and spiritual care services at the various community vigils and supporting a family assistance center. Red Cross Blood Services has provided about 500 blood products to several hospitals in the Boston area. Nearly 150 disaster workers have deployed to provide support and comfort. Since Monday, the Red Cross has served about 7,000 meals and snacks, distributed relief items like blankets and comfort kits and provided hundreds of mental health and health services to those affected.
WEST, TEXAS EXPLOSION Within hours of the plant explosion in Texas, the Red Cross opened a shelter and began supporting a community response center. Red Cross disaster workers have been deployed from all over the state and are providing emotional support and health services with relief items such as comfort kits and water enroute to the region. Red Cross Blood Services is providing blood products to help those injured in the explosion.
HOW TO HELP This week’s tragedies prove that an emergency can happen anywhere, at anytime. While the Red Cross helps in Texas and Boston, it is preparing to respond to severe weather and flooding in other areas of the country. To support Red Cross disaster response, people can donate to Red Cross Disaster Relief at www.redcross.org or by texting REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. People who want to make a donation to directly support victims of the Boston Marathon bombings can visit www.theonefundboston.org.
The Red Cross has enough blood in its inventory now to support both the situation in Texas as well as Boston but reminds everyone that the need for blood is constant. Those who are eligible to give blood are strongly encouraged to schedule an appointment to give in the days and weeks ahead by calling 1-800-RED CROSS or visiting www.redcrossblood.org.  
Many rushed in to provide immediate help for victims of the explosions in Texas and Boston. People can register for a Red Cross First Aid/CPR class at www.redcross.org or take the Family First Aid and CPR class online by visiting www.redcross.org/takeaclass. They can also download the free Red Cross First Aid App which puts simple lifesaving information for first aid emergencies in the hands of smart phone and tablet users. The app is available in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
STEPS TO HELP COPE It has been a difficult week for people across the country. In times like these, it is important for people to connect with and support each other. The Red Cross has information people can use to cope in the aftermath of these tragedies. For free counseling or support which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, people can contact the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 or text “TalkWithUs” to 66746.

Red Cross Steps Help You Cope In The Face Of Tragedy

People may experience a variety of feelings and thoughts after something like the explosions in Boston Monday. The American Red Cross has information people can use to cope in the aftermath of this tragedy.

Something like this is upsetting for everyone involved. People near the emergency are affected, as well as people all over the country who may have family in the Boston area; who may know someone who was participating in the marathon; or people who are watching the media coverage of this tragic situation. It is difficult to understand why something like this happens or what is likely to happen in the coming days.

Children are especially at risk as they may become afraid that the event will happen again, or that they or someone in their family may be injured or killed. The damage, injuries and fatalities are difficult for them to understand. It is important to reassure children and talk to them in a calm manner. Their view of the world as a safe and predictable place is temporarily lost. How a parent or other adult reacts around the child following a traumatic event can determine how quickly and completely the child recovers.

People may be experiencing many different emotions like fear, anger, confusion, shock, disbelief, sadness and grief. These are all normal feelings after this type of event.

People’s reactions appear in different ways, not only in the way someone feels, but in the way they think and what they think about; their sleeping habits, how they go about daily living; and the way they interact and get along with others. Here are a few steps to help people cope:

• Stay informed, but limit exposure to media coverage of the events.
• Take care of yourself. Eat healthy, drink plenty of water and get enough rest.
• Be patient with yourself and others. It’s common to have any number of temporary stress reactions such as anger, frustration and anxiety.
• Stay connected with your family and other support systems. Reach out and accept help from others.
• Encourage children: to express their feelings and thoughts. Reassure them about their safety.

To reach out for free 24/7 counseling or support, contact the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 or text “TalkWithUs’ to 66746.

Floods Can Happen Any Time Anywhere!

Floods can occur anywhere, at any time, throughout the United States and cause more damage in this country every year than any other weather-related disaster.
Flooding can be a local disaster affecting a single neighborhood, or very large, impacting entire river basins across many states. Some floods develop slowly, but flash floods can develop in just a few minutes without any rain. Residents should know if their neighborhood is at risk for flooding and be alert to the possibility of a flood. Listen to local radio or TV stations for possible warnings or other critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS).
The Red Cross has more safety steps people should follow if flooding threatens their home. If a flood or flash flood watch is issued, they should be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice. If a flood or flash flood warning is issued for their area, they should head for higher ground and stay there.

• If a flood WATCH is issued, it means a flood is possible in the area and residents should move furniture and valuables to higher floors of the home and make sure to fill their vehicle’s gas tank in case they have to evacuate.
• A flood WARNING means flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in the area. If a flood warning is issued, listen to local radio and television stations for information. If told to evacuate, do so as soon as possible.
• A flash flood WATCH means flash flooding is possible in the area. Be alert to signs of flash flooding and be ready to evacuate quickly.
• A flash flood WARNING means a flash flood is occurring or will occur very soon. If a flash flood warning is issued, evacuate immediately. There may only be seconds to escape. Act quickly and move to higher ground away from rivers, streams, creeks and storm drains. Do not drive around barricades. If the car stalls in rapidly rising waters, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.

Red Cross Chapter Responds to Help Fire victims in Dunkirk and Jamestown, NY

The Southwestern NY American Red Cross Disaster Action Team (DAT) responded to provide disaster relief following a house fire on Eagle Street, Dunkirk, and an apartment fire on Bishop Street, in Jamestown on April 9th.

DAT volunteers Mary Walker, Jeanie Shiffer, Suzanne Allen, Pete Peterson and Emergency Services Manager Tina Jones provided the initial disaster assistance for the families. Temporary housing, clothing, and meals are services typically offered to address emergency needs. The local Red Cross chapter will continue working with the families and their recovery process if additional services or referrals are necessary.

All disaster assistance offered by the American Red Cross is complimentary and made possible by generous contributions from the American people and residents of Chautauqua County. The United Way organizations of Chautauqua County also provide financial support to the local Red Cross mission.

April is Pet First Aid Awareness Month

     April is Pet First Aid Awareness Month and a great opportunity for pet owners to brush up on tips from the American Red Cross to keep their animals safe and healthy as we head into spring and summer.

Heat stroke is one of the most common problems pets face in the warmer weather when they are not yet used to the warm temperatures. Pet owners should remember that inside of a car can quickly reach 120 degrees in warm weather and should not leave their animals in the car, even during short trips. This can quickly lead to heat stroke. The signs of heat stroke include:

·         Heavy panting and being unable to calm down, even when lying down.

·         The pet’s gums may be brick red, they may have a fast pulse rate, or they may not be able to get up.

     If someone suspects their pet has a heat stroke, they should take the pet’s temperature rectally. If the temperature is above 105 degrees Fahrenheit, they should cool the animal down. The easiest way to do this is by using the water hose. Stop cooling the animal when the temperature reaches 103 degrees. Bring the pet to the veterinarian immediately as heat stroke can lead to severe organ dysfunction and damage.

     Open door and windows can be hazardous to a pet. The animal may try to go outside, increasing the risk of falling from windows or being hit by a vehicle. Some plants and flowers can be hazardous. For instance, many lilies are very poisonous to cats. Visit the ASPCA Poison Control web site to find out which plants and flowers are poisonous to animals. If someone thinks their animal is ill or may have ingested a poisonous substance, they should contact their veterinarian.

     Courses are available at many Red Cross chapters on how to care for your pet. The Red Cross has also developed Dog First Aid and Cat First Ad Guides with DVDs that teach basic responsibilities like spaying/neutering and giving medications, to performing CPR and preparing for disasters. Contact 1800-REDCROSS to see when classes are available.

Pet owners can follow these important steps to help keep their pet healthy:

·         Give pets plenty of exercise.

·         Make sure they have plenty of fresh, cool water.

·         Make sure they get regular yearly checkups with their veterinarian, and are up to date on vaccines, especially rabies.

·         Get pets spayed or neutered.

·         Keep dogs on leashes outside-another animal may be too much temptation

·         Know how to perform CPR and provide basic first aid until veterinary care is available.

Don’t forget to include pets in planning for emergencies in your home or neighborhood:

·         Make plans to take your pets with you if you have to evacuate.

·         Most Red Cross shelters cannot accept pets because of health and safety concerns and other considerations. Know which friends, relatives, hotels, boarding facilities will accept pets in an emergency.

·         Assemble an easy-to-carry kit with emergency supplies for pets:

o    Leashes, harnesses and/or carriers

o    Food, drinking water, bowls, manual can openers

o    Medications and copies of medical records

o    Current photos of the pets

Pet First Aid Awareness Month is a great time for people to learn how to protect their pet and keep them healthy.

Red Cross Responds to House Fire Victims in Caneadea, NY

The Southwestern NY American Red Cross Disaster Action Team (DAT) responded to provide disaster relief following a house fire on April 1^st in Caneadea.

DAT volunteer James Braley of Friendship and Allegany County District Manager Darlene Wells were on scene to provide the initial disaster assistance. Temporary housing, clothing, and meals are services typically offered to address emergency needs. The local Red Cross chapter will continue working with the family and their recovery process if additional services or referrals are necessary.

All disaster assistance offered by the American Red Cross is complimentary and made possible by generous contributions from the American people and residents of Allegany County. The United Way organization of Allegany County also provides financial support to the local Red Cross mission.

Spring Driving Safety Tips

Just because the snow is off the roads does not mean that drivers cannot pay attention while driving. The spring season brings its own list of travel risks. Take the season change as a way to inspect your vehicle for any damages that winter may have caused. Take note of any new rust spots, dents or scratches that a winter mishap may have occurred throughout the winter months. Remove winter tires when recommended by your auto mechanic.

With the snow melting and those ‘April Showers’ bringing excess water to the roads, driving can become tricky. The wet and possibly slushy roads can become hazardous to drivers. Drive with caution through common runoff areas. Also, water can mix with oil and grease on the road to create slippery conditions.  Avoid driving through large puddles. Driving through water can impair your brakes, cloud your vision, or even cause you to hydroplane. Not only do you not know how deep that water is, but what lies under that water and be a mystery too. Potholes can be very dangerous especially when they are hidden by water. Potholes can throw your car out of alignment or can cause more damage to your vehicle.

Spring rain can put a strain on your tired winter wiper blades. Road salt, ice and other road residue on the windows may have caused damage to the wipers and may need replacing. Having wiper blades in poor condition can cause impaired vision during heavy rains. Finally, take time to clean the glass carefully to help remove all of the winter residue and oily film that may have built up throughout the snowy months.

The American Red Cross of Southwestern New York encourages all travelers to check and restock their emergency car kit. Items in a car kit includes a battery powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries, blanket, booster cables, first aid and manual, bottled water and non-perishable high energy foods such as granola bars, raisins and peanut butter, maps, shovel, flares, and tire repair kit and pump.  These items will become useful when a vehicle leaves someone stranded, the road becomes impassable, or in any other travel emergency.

Continue to drive safe throughout the year. The American Red Cross of Southwestern New York is a United Way Agency.

April Blood Drives