‘United Way stands as a backbone for our chapter’

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11:42 AM Tuesday, November 24, 2009

How the American Red Cross relies on Butler County United Way — 326! That is the number of individuals the Butler County office of the American Red Cross provided food, clothing and shelter to last year alone.

Disasters happen every day. There is never a convenient time, prior warnings, or a way to predict when a disaster may strike. This is why we must be ready.

As the winter months approach, the opportunities for disasters increase — especially in the form of house fires, as people use alternative methods to heat their homes. It is devastating to a family when their home is destroyed by fire unexpectedly.

However, when our “disaster action team” is there to comfort and assist with a family’s immediate needs, the momentary relief shown through their gratitude reiterates just how important Red Cross services are to the community.

Our partnership with the Butler County United Way plays an important role with our ability to deliver services. It is with the help of the United Way, the Butler County Red Cross is able to assist and be ready when the time comes.

Now more than ever, more people are seeking assistance for the first time. With the economic downfall, the chapter has experienced a significant increase in requests for housing, utility assistance and transportation services. Our chapter spent more than $91,000 last year alone in order to provide assistance to clients who needed our help after being faced with a life-altering circumstance.

It’s because of our partnership with the Butler County United Way, that our chapter is able to continue to serve. The United Way stands as a backbone for our chapter and more than 30 other agencies in Butler County that work consistently to give back to our community.

The Butler County office of the American Red Cross values the partnership with the local United Way, and continues to encourage the community to “Live United” and advocate the great resources it provides to one and all each and every day.

Christine Birhanzl

Director

Butler County American Red Cross

Middletown

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