Courtesy of Cherokee Nation

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — Cherokee Nation leaders presented a $100,000 gift that was matched dollar for dollar from private donations to American Red Cross Disaster Relief on Monday.

“The American Red Cross helps families at their most vulnerable, stepping in after catastrophic events to bridge gaps between first responders and recovery efforts,” said Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. “Cherokee culture holds the idea of shared community well-being in high regard, imbued in the word ‘Gadugi.’ The Red Cross is an important partner, supporting Cherokees and our neighbors across the country when they need it most.”

In addition to providing critical disaster preparedness, relief and recovery services, the Red Cross collects lifesaving blood, distributes comfort kits to veterans and more — helping more than 25,000 people each day.

“Cherokee Nation and the Red Cross share a common mission to make our communities more resilient,” said Tralynna Scott, Cherokee Nation Businesses chief economist and Red Cross Tulsa-area board secretary. “Whether from widespread natural disasters or isolated house fires, Red Cross responds after tragedy to shelter displaced families and ease their path to recovery. Strong communities prioritize resiliency against inevitable setbacks. Red Cross is an invaluable partner to long-term community growth.”

In honor of Red Cross Month, March 1-31, Cherokee Nation offered to match donations up to $100,000 in support of the organization’s disaster relief efforts. The Red Cross accepted more than $280,000 in private donations during Cherokee Nation’s sponsored day.

“The American Red Cross is deeply grateful for our partnership with Cherokee Nation,” said Megan Haddock, American Red Cross regional chief executive officer. “Their generosity and collaboration help us carry out our mission to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies. We cannot provide critical disaster response, relief and recovery services without dedicated partners like Cherokee Nation, whose commitment to helping others makes a lasting impact on communities in need.”