The American Red Cross has announced it is suspending its "Qualify of Life" program.
The Department of Defense has advised the Red Cross of security concerns and transportation restrictions, and has cautioned against collecting a large amount of goods. The department has suspended its own "Any Service Member" and "Operation Dear Abby" services due to security and logistical concerns.
The Red Cross said it currently has more than enough goods in its distribution area to last an estimated four months. Groups and organizations in the process of collecting items should bring campaigns to a close and take the items to the Red Cross for future distribution.
The Red Cross is uncertain about the duration of Operation Iraqi Freedom and cannot predict when the "Quality of Life" program will resume. Communities may still assist the Red Cross by:
• Donating blood during the weeks ahead, as the Armed Services Blood Program has asked that the Red Cross provide shipments of blood and blood products.
• Volunteer in the community. Many military service members who normally perform volunteer work are now deployed. Individuals can volunteer to help watch neighborhoods, help neighborhoods become better prepared, or volunteer for the Red Cross.
• Make a financial contribution. With approximately 300,000 forces in the region and climbing, the volume of Red Cross emergency communications has jumped 20 percent. The agency estimates an additional $8-$10 million will be needed to help it meet the demand.
• Support military families at home by purchasing gift certificates in denominations of $5, $10 or $20 for movie passes, restaurant and fast-food establishments, or mall certificates for clothing or other needs. The Red Cross will distribute the gift certificates to military families here at home.
For more information, call (732) 493-9100.