Red Cross
seeking more
volunteers

When a blaze started by a cigarette destroyed all three floors of a house at 97-12 93rd Street in Woodhaven on January 27, relief workers from the Greater New York Chapter of the American Red Cross provided temporary housing and a stipend for food and clothing for a family of four who escaped from the second story of the building
In Queens alone, through March 31 of this year, the Greater New York Red Cross Chapter responded to 181 fires and other emergencies and assisted 860 adults and children with food, shelter and/or counseling following a disaster. Sonia I. Martínez, Director of Community Development, advised that the Red Cross’ mission is to “assist individuals in times of disaster.”
Martinez explained that the Greater New York Chapter, which encompasses the five boroughs, as well as Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan and Orange Counties, is the busiest chapter in the nation. Currently, there are 6,400 youth and adult volunteers – making up 95 percent of the workforce – but Martinez said that more people need to sign up.
“Our goal is to increase that number to 10,000,” she said.
The Red Cross does not receive any federal funding. The state and city provide “some funding, but not enough” Martinez explained; most of the Red Cross’ funding comes from individuals, corporations and foundations.
But far from just responding to a crisis, the Red Cross also focuses on emergency preparedness and outreach.
Each month, the organization hosts a “Here and Now” presentation at its headquarters in Manhattan. The free one hour-long networking opportunity features a tour and guest speakers.
“It’s a wonderful way to get to know the American Red Cross,” said Martinez, who noted that, last year, a city grant for the Ready New York program, a disaster-preparedness presentation, “was cut entirely.”
The Greater New York Chapter also teaches adult, child and infant CPR, Automated External Defibrillator (AED) training, and First Aid and water safety to individuals, groups and corporations.
“We educate tens of thousands of people each year, from children in their schools to employees at their workplaces and senior citizens at community centers,” said Martinez.
That’s why, she said, they need your help now more than ever.
“We are building relationships within the Hispanic, Chinese and Korean communities in Queens,” said Martinez. “There is a need for more volunteers, especially if they speak other languages; to get New Yorkers prepared to take care of themselves and their loved ones, and to become involved with the Red Cross.”
Throughout the month of April, the Red Cross is also holding its “Heroes” campaign – “heroes,” through an online network, participants each raise at least $1,000 to go toward Red Cross programs.
“We need your support – donations in any amount are greatly appreciated,” said Martinez.
If you would like to donate or volunteer, visit www.nyredcross.org.