Written by Pete Suarez, American Red Cross Public Affairs
In challenging times, many wonder how to talk to others about their struggles – or even how to face their own – without feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of life, finances, or day-to-day living. For countless individuals, this is the reality after experiencing a natural disaster.
For that reason, and for many others, the American Red Cross exists.
In South Florida, home of the University of Miami Hurricanes, there can be few schools’ mascots moniker that can more aptly describe the intense yearly weather events we face. How do we handle it?
Well, the American Red Cross is there.
Over the past year, the Red Cross has responded to disasters of all kinds. There were sudden floods in Fort Lauderdale and in North Miami, a large apartment fire in the heart of Miami which resulted in over 40 families suddenly being displaced from their four-story building, hurricane Debby in August and the more recent one-two punch of Helene and Milton in a short span of two weeks, with their corresponding tornadoes. Add to that, the many home fires to which our volunteers responded to.
For those who appreciate numbers, this past year the Red Cross has aided over 10,000 households that sustained considerable storm damage or destruction. Our staff and volunteers have conducted over 21,000 damage assessments and have distributed over 72,000 relief items. More than three-quarters of a million meals and snacks have been given out.
All of this is possible because of the dedication and strength of a selfless and generous workforce of volunteers, partners, and staff who tirelessly shared their resources of time, talent and treasure with those in need.
Whenever there is an opportunity to alleviate suffering and help people rebuild their lives, the American Red Cross is there.
How does the Red Cross achieve its mission? By preparing, acting, and responding.
During the last year, the Red Cross has conducted lifesaving classes in CPR and First Aid, educated adults and children in home fire prevention and trained hundreds of volunteers to respond effectively to crises. As such, over 12,000 individuals have taken part in helping others in need during 2024.
Beyond immediate relief, case workers continue to support families long after the initial shock of disaster fades, ensuring they have the resources to recover.
When a community needs to prepare, to act and to respond, the Red Cross is there.
The work the Red Cross does in planning, preparing and responding to the needs of those affected by catastrophic events, is carried out using one commodity all of us possess and can share with others. That commodity is time.
A funny thing happens with time. It seems the more time you give, the more time you get. Yes, it doesn’t make sense, unless you happen to believe that “it is in giving that we receive.”
In the month of December our thoughts turn to holidays whereby we gift each other with presents of all kinds. Whether you are young or old, of any race or belief, the Red Cross is there for you. Why?
Because of the gift we can be to each other. Because the myriads of Red Crossers who will devote their time, talent and treasure to ensure that when disaster strikes, the Red Cross is there.
The American Red Cross of South Florida is proud to be able to help those in need. It does so because of the generosity of the many people who believe in sharing their resources with others.
Visit redcross.org/SouthFlorida to donate or become a volunteer today.