America is a special place, where someone you may not know will give you their blood, save you from drowning or provide you with shelter. In 1943, President Theodore Roosevelt recognized the American Red Cross as a true reflection of that humanitarian, volunteer spirit and proclaimed March as Red Cross Month, a tradition that has been honored by every president since. The Jersey Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross has dedicated this month to recognizing some of the countless people who make the lifesaving work of the Red Cross possible in Monmouth and Ocean counties.
Although hurricanes and tsunamis make the headlines, the day-to-day work of the Red Cross is centered on communities like ours and done by volunteers. This year, 1,900 of our neighbors volunteered a cumulative 7,600 hours through the Red Cross. In honor of their service to our community, we recently held our volunteer recognition ceremonies honoring those who make our work possible.
None of this would be possible without the generous help of donors and supporters in our local communities. This year, more than 7,000 residents and local businesses financially supported the Jersey Coast Chapter, allowing us to continue our lifesaving work.
Through the American Red Cross, there is a place families can turn to for food, shelter and comfort, when fires and other emergencies strike. This year, we have helped more than 150 area residents who have faced a devastating disaster, mostly single-family house fires. We have also provided mass care to more than 300 firefighters while on the job, providing them with food and beverages.
As CEO of our local Red Cross, I believe we can take great pride in what we’ve done together. Thanks to your support of the Red Cross, there was a place where more than 35,000 of our neighbors could go to learn first aid and CPR, and even how to save lives with automatic external defibrillators (AEDs). This year, the Red Cross was also the place where 512 families separated by military service were able to stay connected and exchange messages about family emergencies. And 9,700 of our neighbors chose their Red Cross as the place to give blood, the gift of life.
The Red Cross Lifeline program has provided service to more than 8,700 residents since 1988. Last year we served 1,400 clients enabling people to live independently and at the same time provide comfort to their loved ones knowing an emergency call will be responded to quickly.
Much has changed since that first Red Cross Month in 1943. But one thing has not. Monmouth and Ocean counties are still a place where neighbors help neighbors, and your support of our Red Cross is a true reflection of that spirit. Together, we can save a life.
Bill Murray, CEO
Jersey Coast Chapter
Tinton Falls