Cross Blog: Red Cross news and views from Oregon and beyond

A neat story in the O with a Red Cross connection

2012-01-27T13:06:00.000-08:00

By Jim Beseda, The Oregonian. Photo by Motoya Nakamura, The Oregonian

A year ago, Jefferson High School's Deion Guice seemed to be a big-time, big-program college football prospect -- until his transcript came into play.

He barely was doing enough in the classroom to remain eligible for the Democrats, and the chances of him getting admitted to a major university seemed questionable.

Last May, Guice accepted an invitation to Portland State's Junior Day. Vikings coach Nigel Burton first praised him for his athletic ability, then blasted him for his academic shortcomings.

That got Guice's attention.

Read more at OregonLive...

The Most Selfless Vanity Plate In The World

2012-01-26T16:35:00.000-08:00

A single car accident victim can require as many as 100 pints of blood. This driver "walks the walk" or actually..."drives the drive" by building blood donation awareness via license plate!

It is crucial that we build our blood supply for all patients in need and have a sufficient supply for the unexpected. You can help! Visit redcrossblood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or, if you're as dedicated as this driver, maybe even visit your local DMV...

A huge thanks to Lise for capturing this image!

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2012-01-25T18:03:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up, in which we consolidate the international Red Cross and Red Crescent news into one list of bite-sized links for you. It's a non-comprehensive sampling of the larger and/or more intriguing aspects of our global work...

SYRIA: Violence in Syria continues with one of the latest casualties being the secretary-general of the Syrian Arab Red Crescent, Dr. Abd-al-Razzaq Jbeiro. Dr. Jbeiro was shot in a vehicle clearly marked with the red crescent emblem after attending meetings at Syrian Arab Red Crescent headquarters in Damascus. The Syrian Arab Red Crescent, IFRC, and ICRC are renewing calls for an end to violence, while volunteers continue to administer life-saving first aid to the injured.

IVORY COAST: Following the second round of presidential elections in late 2010 where both candidates claimed victory, tension and violence grew into a full-fledged armed conflict in Ivory Coast. In the chaos, hundreds of children lost contact with their families. The ICRC and the Liberian Red Cross have registered around 600 children separated from their parents and are working to bring the children back their families.

PHILIPPINES: As tens of thousands of survivors in Mindanao, Philippines enter their second month of uncertainty, the Red Cross is announcing plans to drastically increase its support to communities affected by December’s Typhoon Washi. The revised operation will see the Red Cross provide 2,000 families with cash or other livelihoods support as well as reaching 15,000 families – an estimated 75,000 people – with food, water storage containers and hygiene kits. In all, the Red Cross now intends to reach 100,000 people through these various interventions.

SUDAN: For Darfur's pastoral communities, livestock is essential for their sustenance and constitutes the backbone of the local economy. The lack of rain, desertification and prevailing insecurity has stressed herding communities into animal overcrowding at the few options remaining, leading to increased risk of disease. The ICRC has been extending its support by training animal health workers and through large-scale vaccination campaigns in remote areas of Darfur, and in response herders are reporting a dramatic decrease in the number of animals they are losing to disease.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

જીવન સાચવો, લોહી દાન! (Save Lives, Donate Blood!)

2012-01-24T19:51:00.000-08:00

Hidden among the chaotic collection of decrepit alleys, perplexing roundabouts, and weaving rickshaws, there is an unassuming, white building. This structure, surrounded by several Blood Mobiles, is the Bombay City Branch of the India Red Cross Society.

I had the privilege of visiting the center while taking a family vacation to India over winter break. Although the site doesn’t boast extravagant advertising methods, a large donation center, or a surplus budget, all 35 staff members are compassionate, generous, resourceful, dedicated, and hard-working. The center only has about 2-3 walk-in donors per day, and a majority of their donations are the result of Blood Mobile presence at political functions, birthday parties, universities and other large social gatherings.

Dr. Narinder Kaur Naidu, Medical Director for the Bombay City Branch, mentioned the significance of the National Service Scheme (NSS) in raising awareness about Red Cross needs, providing volunteers, and encouraging others to donate. NSS is a service organization of 2.6 million volunteers from over 200 universities, which shows the power and crucial presence of youth in philanthropic efforts.

As I received a delightful tour of the blood center, I passed the halls adorned with catchy propaganda, such as a poster saying We can’t get blood from a stone, so please give us a little of yours. The Mumbai branch gives about 35-40% of its collected units at no cost. A majority of these recipients are children, who are also provided medicines if required.

I am impressed by the amount the branch is able to do on few resources, such as hold local events for World Red Cross Day, engage the Junior Red Cross in activities such as summer camps and workshops, and celebrity cricket matches. It was an honor to be able to visit the Maharastra branch in Mumbai, and to meet fellow human beings striving to impact the world around them through service, leadership, and compassion.

Visiting the center reminded me of why I volunteer for the Red Cross; the passion the Red Cross has for positive change transcends cultural, political, language, and country boundary lines and truly saves the lives of people across the globe! Thank you India Red Cross Society!

Red Cross Response Continues in Oregon

2012-01-24T14:18:00.000-08:00

The Oregon Red Cross response to the January Winter Storm disaster began on Jan 18. The storm has been accompanied by hurricane force winds in some parts of the coast, heavy rain, snow, ice, power outages, fallen trees, flooding, landslides and two fatalities. The storm has affected ten counties to date, and has impacted Salem, coastal areas, and some small towns in the Coast foothills and central Willamette Valley.

Current impact-to-residence totals across Oregon, as identified by Red Cross disaster assessment teams, as of January 23rd, are:

• 167 residences have been affected in some way that caused the occupants to require Red Cross assistance;
• 52 residences have sustained minor damage;
• 37 residences have sustained major damage;
• 6 residences have been destroyed.

The Red Cross is currently completing Disaster Assessments in several counties and also developing a list of unmet needs for partner organizations, such as: disposal dumpsters, sheet rock, and rebuilding supplies.

We continue to send assessment teams into areas where river waters have receded. We are restocking trailers and activating volunteers in anticipation of additional flooding, with Disaster Response Teams standing by to respond in several locations in the Willamette Valley and the Oregon coast, including:

Lincoln County
Tillamook County
Clatsop County
Columbia County
Washington County
Yamhill County
Polk County

We have contacted the Emergency Mangers in all of these counties, offered our assistance and requested they notify us if they are considering opening their EOCs.

We are sending a Shelter Team to assist with a Red Cross supported shelter in Hood River. This shelter was requested by Hood River Emergency Management due to snow, icy conditions and power outages that have continued in the area for several days.

A Red Cross shelter has been opened across the Columbia River from Hood River in White Salmon at White Salmon Fire Hall, 119 NE Church Street.

We are also standing by with shelter teams if the Nehalem River begins to rise to flood levels in Vernonia.

You can search for Red Cross Shelter sites online at: http://www.redcross.org/nss/

Support the Red Cross
All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people. You can help people affected by disasters, like the recent storms and flooding, by making a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for and provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance in response to disasters.

Contributions may be sent online at http://www.redcross.org, or to your local American Red Cross chapter, or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.

Red Cross needs blood donations...
Severe weather in the state has disrupted blood donations. If you have an appointment to donate blood, don't forget to come by, or if you would like to sign up to donate, go to: http://www.redcrossblood.org/ or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to schedule an appointment.

Red Cross Safe and Well...
The Oregon Red Cross encourages everyone displaced by flooding, and anyone attempting to locate friends and loved ones, to use the Red Cross Safe and Well site at: https://safeandwell.communityos.org/cms/index.php

Winter Storm Update, Monday January 23, 2012

2012-01-23T16:55:00.000-08:00

Downtown business are protected from flood waters with sandbags in Scio, Thursday. A new storm system is expected to arrive tomorrow. AP Photo

The American Red Cross is continuing its around-the-clock humanitarian efforts to provide assistance to families and communities impacted by the recent storms. We are preparing for the next round of storms, expected to begin impacting the Oregon coast and Coast Range tomorrow.

We are working closely with emergency managers and local government officials to anticipate where our help may be needed.

Heavy rain and high winds are expected to begin hitting the Oregon coast tomorrow (Tuesday) and could cause a new round of flooding in coastal communities and the Coast Range.

We are also watching for severe winter weather in the Columbia Gorge, where we opened a shelter last week (Hood River).

Nine (9) shelters with teams are on standby and will open if needed. Shelter locations are in Clackamas,Columbia, Tillamook, Clatsop, and Lincoln counties.

Over 100 Red Cross staffers deployed last week through the weekend and many are still in the field.

50 Red Cross sites across the state have been stocked with supplies for immediate response.

The Red Cross Emergency Operations Center has been active since Wednesday afternoon. We are currently assessing potential future needs in the affected areas for supplies and/or shelters.

SUPPORT THE RED CROSS
All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people.

You can help people affected by disasters, like the recent storms and flooding, by making a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for and provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance in response to disasters.

Contributions may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.

Click here to make a donation.

Red Cross also needs blood donations...
Severe weather in the state has disrupted blood donations. If you have an appointment to donate blood, please don't forget to come by, or if you would like to sign up to donate, go to: http://www.redcrossblood.org/ or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to schedule an appointment.

RED CROSS SAFE AND WELL
During an emergency, letting your family know that you are safe can bring your loved ones great peace of mind. If you are affected by the flood, register on the Red Cross Safe and Well Website accessible at www.redcross.org.

The Safe and Well Website allows those directly affected by a disaster to let their loved ones know of their well-being.

For those who do not have internet access, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to register yourself and your family. Follow the prompts for disaster information.

Concerned family members who know the person’s phone number (home, cell or work) or a complete home address can search for the messages posted by those who self-register.

American Red Cross, Oregon Region - Winter Storm Update

2012-01-21T10:07:00.000-08:00

The American Red Cross is working around the clock to provide assistance to families and communities impacted by the recent storms.

Our Emergency Operations Center has been active since Wednesday afternoon. We are currently assessing both ongoing and potential needs, for supplies and/or shelters, in the affected areas. We are continuing to monitor and respond to developing events in flood-prone places this weekend. We currently have over 100 Red Cross volunteers and staff from around the state actively responding, and we have several hundred more volunteers on alert, if needed.

There is new concern in Hood River County, where they have been dealing with icy conditions, power outages and downed trees – we have opened a shelter at WyEast Middle School, 3000 Wy'East Rd.

Four (4) Red Cross shelterswere open overnight: Aumsville; Brookings; Gold Beach; and Mapleton. Red Cross is also providing support for two community shelters: in Allegany; and Salem. We have opened a total of seven shelters during the last 24 hours, which also included Corvallis, Florence and Vernonia.

You can search for current Red Cross Shelter sites online at: http://www.redcross.org/nss/

We are drawing on supplies that were pre-positioned in over 50 locations across the state to conduct these sheltering and relief efforts.

We are prepared to provide distribution of clean-up kits, comfort kits and emergency food supplies as needed. In addition to sleeping accommodations, snacks and meals have been provided to shelter residents as well as mental health and medical supplies and assistance as needed.

In addition, Red Cross volunteers have responded to disasters where families have been displaced (home fires, flooding, trees falling on homes) in Tillamook, Marion and Wasco Counties. We are providing, free of charge, assistance with lodging, food, clothing, comfort kits, and information about Health and Mental Health services.

Red Cross needs blood donations...

Severe weather in the state has disrupted blood donations. If you have an appointment to donate blood, don't forget to come by, or if you would like to sign up to donate, go to: http://www.redcrossblood.org/ or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to schedule an appointment.

Red Cross Safe and Well...

The Oregon Red Cross encourages everyone displaced by weather, and anyone attempting to locate friends and loved ones, to use the Red Cross Safe and Well site at: https://safeandwell.communityos.org/cms/index.php

You can help people affected by disasters like the recent storms and flooding as well as countless crises at home and around the world, by making a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red cross to prepare for and provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance in response to disasters. Visit www.oregonredcross.org or call (503) 528-5659. Contributions may also be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.

All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people.

Click here to make a donation.

Great links to Oregon flood resources and information

2012-01-20T07:05:00.000-08:00

Social Media guru Scott Reuter with Oregon Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (an awesome organization, by the way) has posted a great list of Oregon flood resources.

He also has some really good advice if you're ready to jump in and volunteer:

"Regarding volunteering: Your help will be appreciated and needed, but wait to be asked. Self-deploying to disasters before officials are ready and are requesting volunteers can be unsafe, and can cause difficulties and hardship for those affected by the disaster.

Also, sometimes help is needed well after the response phase for long-term disaster recovery - if you can't help now, you can still be a great help later!"

Thanks Scott!

Also, check out the latest update on our response to the winter storms... we've been busy!

Snow, Winds, Rain, and Floods, Oh, My! Blood Donors Needed.

2012-01-19T14:36:00.000-08:00

Winter weather has taken its toll with a quadruple punch of snow, winds, rain, and flooding in the Pacific Northwest. Unfortunately, this nasty weather has led to numerous missed appointments and a serious decline in blood donations.

Schedule your appointment at a blood drive near you or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

It’s the blood that is already on the shelves that helps save lives before, during and after more extreme weather conditions, so the Red Cross is urging immediate blood and platelet donations in areas where it’s safe for donors to do so.

Since platelets have a shelf-life of just five days, it is imperative that there are enough platelets on hand to meet the needs of patients across the country.

Nationwide, around 44,000 blood donations are needed each and every day to meet the needs of accident victims, cancer patients, and children with blood disorders. These patients and others rely on blood products during their treatment. If blood collections are negatively impacted by winter weather, the long-term care needs of these patients could also be affected.

When winter weather strikes, this need does not diminish, even though blood donors may find it difficult or impossible to get to a convenient donation opportunity. If people will make an appointment to donate blood in the upcoming days and weeks ahead, blood will be available should conditions prohibit people from traveling or coming to blood drives.

It is crucial that we build our blood supply for all patients in need and regain a sufficient supply for the unexpected. Please help now. Make a blood donation appointment online or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

A Warming Experience...

2012-01-19T07:47:00.000-08:00

At 9 PM, dozens of people are streaming through the just-opened doors of the Imago Dei Community Warming Center. We, on the inside, have been reminded of the time by those outside, holding their cell phones to the window, and showing us we're two minutes late getting the doors open.

Lots of these folks don't look homeless. They tromp in with decent looking backpacks and rain jackets, ski pants, bikes... everyone takes a couple of blankets and heads into the gym to settle in on a mat.

Some look like they've been on the street for a while... a few with shopping carts, loaded to overflowing, rigs almost too big to get through the doors... bikes with trailers... men and women with dogs and cats. One guy turns around and leaves, cursing, with his pug tucked into his jacket when he finds out he'd have to put the dog in a carrier when he gets inside, even though he could stay right next to it.

All the pets and carts, bikes and bulky gear go over on the plastic... there's a dozen pet carriers against the wall, some of them big enough for a german shepherd... people bed down next to their pets.

Some people look a little embarrassed to be here. Almost every one says thank you. It's been raining all day and the snow started falling around 7:30 PM. Everyone looks soaked...

In 20 minutes, the place looks packed. We've got 150 mats spread out on the gym floor. Everybody is happy to get in out of the crummy weather... it seems pretty full, but Curtis tell me we've only got about 80 people, mostly men, a few teens... he says one time they crammed 300 people into the gym.

Larry is running the kitchen and he and Judy have put out coffee (decaffeinated, although we don't tell anyone unless they ask), hot water and tea bags, hot broth and water.

I was lucky enough to be here tonight and found myself, yet again, being reminded of what little needs to be done to make an impact. I felt warmer on the inside by helping others feel warmer on the outside.

However many times and in however many ways we need to be reminded, there will always be something we can do to give ourselves and our neighbors hope.

The Oregon Red Cross has scheduled several orientation sessions, available in person or online, which cover the basics for warming center operations; staffing assignments; rules of conduct; and what to expect as a volunteer. Everyone who has volunteered in the past has wonderful stories from their experiences at the warming centers and we'd love to have you join us!

Why Do You Donate?

2012-01-19T07:40:00.000-08:00

"Donating blood is my way of paying rent for living on earth."

...says Dolly, who hit her 100-gallon milestone this week during National Blood Donor Month.

What motivates you as an #everydayhero to donate?

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2012-01-18T17:03:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up, in which we consolidate the international Red Cross and Red Crescent news into one list of bite-sized links for you. It's a non-comprehensive sampling of the larger and/or more intriguing aspects of our global work...

ITALY: 250 Italian Red Cross staff and volunteers are taking part in the rescue and relief operation at the site of capsized liner Costa Concordia. The cruise ship hit rocks off Italy’s west coast on Friday night, killing at least 12 people and injuring 70. Volunteers have supplied more than 800 people with clothes, shoes, hygiene kits, transport to nearby hospitals, medicine and other materials.

NIGERIA: The ICRC is providing support for the Nigerian Red Cross to treat those injured in a recent wave of protests. A nationwide strike was called for January 9th by labor organizations to protest the withdrawal of fuel subsidies. Since the strike began, Nigerian Red Cross volunteers have provided first aid all over the country to more than 600 injured persons.

DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO: Heavy fighting has been raging in Shabunda territory of South Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Since January 5th, 27 injured people, including eight children, have been evacuated to various hospitals in Bukavu with support from the ICRC. The ICRC is continuing to supply medical supplies and is pressing the authorities and weapon bearers to respect and protect civilians.

SOMALIA: The ICRC has decided to temporarily suspend distribution of food and seed relief intended for 1.1 million people in urgent need after having been blocked by local authorities in parts of central and southern Somalia. Since a drought started in late 2010 the ICRC has distributed food rations to more than a million people and has provided agricultural support for over 100,000 farmers.

CHILE: On the first day of the new year hundreds in Chile were evacuated from dozens of forest fires that burned at least 57,000 acres. The Chilean Red Cross is currently assisting more that 50 families in shelters located in the communes of Quillon and Chillan.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Responding to Vernonia

2012-01-18T15:30:00.000-08:00

THE OREGON RED CROSS IS RESPONDING IN VERNONIA

In the wake of a powerful winter storm that has hit Vernonia and left 2 feet of snow on the ground, knocked power out in town and heightened the possibility of flooding, the Oregon Red Cross is responding to a request for help by moving people, supplies and resources into this community of 2,300 people.

Working with Vernonia city officials, a warming shelter will be activated at the Vernonia Community Church and will be providing a warm place to stay, ready to prepare hot meals, and cleanup and comfort kits to those who need them.

The Oregon Red Cross is also preparing for flooding that may occur as the snow melts, and will have a sheltering team and equipment in place tonight, ready to help should the need arise.

Oregon Red Cross workers are also in regular communication with emergency managers and are ready to respond throughout the state as communities cope with this extreme winter storm.

Photo from OregonLive.com

Emergency Warming Shelter Activated

2012-01-16T14:16:00.000-08:00

The City of Portland has asked the Oregon Trail Chapter of the American Red Cross to open an Emergency Warming Center for the community tonight, January 16th, 2011, and we are on stand-by for tomorrow night as well.

The Red Cross Emergency Warming Center is located at Imago Dei Community, 1302 SE Ankeny, and open to guests from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. The Red Cross anticipates serving up to 150 people each night.
A Red Cross Emergency Warming Center differs from a traditional shelter in several ways:

There is no check-in/registration required
Singles, couples and families are all welcome
Guests can come and go as they please throughout the night
Pets are welcome, as long as they are crated, or we have crates available to borrow (crates are available for up to 40 pets, courtesy of Multnomah County Animal Services).

The Warming Center will provide mats and blankets for guests, as well as hot drinks, but beds, food, clothing and financial support will not be available.

For more information call 211Info (2-1-1 from a land line or 503-222-5555) or visit www.211info.org/

Winter Storm Safety

2012-01-14T14:58:00.000-08:00

Winter Storm Safety Checklist Winter Storm Safety Checklist [PDF]

Winter storms are predicted for the Portland Metro area this holiday weekend, and maybe into next week. Storms here can range from light snow over a few hours to heavy wind, driven rain that lasts for several days. Some of our winter storms are accompanied by low temperatures and some by strong winds, icing, sleet and freezing rain.

Know the Difference

The National Weather Service has issued a Special Weather Statement for the Greater Portland Metro Area. As much as 3-5" of snow could occur over the next 36 hours.

What should I do if the storm hits?

Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or other local news channels for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS).
Minimize travel. If travel is necessary, keep a emergency supplies kit in your vehicle.
If you must go out, dress in several layers of lightweight clothing, wear mittens and a hat (preferably one that covers your ears).
Wear waterproof, insulated boots to keep your feet warm and dry and to maintain your footing in ice and snow.
Keep the gas tank of your vehicle full. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing.
Cover leaky window with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out.
Bring pets/companion animals inside. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas with nonfrozen drinking water.
Running tap or bath water, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing.
All fuel-burning equipment, used for alternate heating or cooking, should be vented to the outside and kept clear.

What supplies should I have on hand?

Water—at least a 3-day supply; one gallon per person per day
Food—at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food
Flashlight
Battery powered or handcrank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)
Extra batteries
First aid kit
Medications (7-day supply) and any necessary medical items (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane)
Multi-purpose tool
Sanitation and personal hygiene items
Cell phone with chargers
Extra cash
Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)
Pet supplies
Sand, rock salt or non-clumping kitty litter to make walkways and steps less slippery
Warm coats, gloves or mittens, hats, boots and extra blankets and warm clothing for all household members
Ample alternate heating methods such as fireplaces or wood or coal-burning stoves

What might I need to know after a storm?

Avoid driving when conditions include sleet, freezing rain or drizzle, snow or dense fog.
Before tackling strenuous tasks in cold temperatures, such as shoveling snow, consider your physical condition, the weather factors and the nature of the task.
Protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing warm, loosefitting, lightweight clothing in several layers. Stay indoors, if possible.
Help people who require special assistance such as elderly people living alone, people with disabilities and children.
Check on your animals and make sure that their access to food and water is not blocked by snow drifts, ice or other obstacles. If possible, bring them indoors.
Go to a designated public shelter if your home loses power or heat during periods of extreme cold.

One last thought: carbon monoxide kills.

The primary hazards to avoid when using alternate sources for electricity, heating or cooking are carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock and fire.
Install carbon monoxide alarms in central locations on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide.
Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawl space or any partially enclosed area. Locate unit away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.
If the carbon monoxide alarm sounds, move quickly to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door.
Call for help from the fresh air location and remain there until emergency personnel arrive to assist you.

Teen Battles Sickle Cell Anemia Through Education and Volunteer Efforts

2012-01-12T11:22:00.000-08:00

Latay Hammick, 13, promotes the need for donors as she herself faces a blood disorder. Read Latay's full story in The Skanner and give patients a fighting chance; donate with the Red Cross and join the Be The Match and Donate Life Northwest registries.

MLK Blood, Bone Marrow, and Organ, Eye and Tissue Donor Registry Drives will be held in Salem and Bend on January 16 and January 21 in Portland

Those who wish to speak to Latay Hammick, her family, or a Be The Match or Donate Life Northwest representative in person will have the opportunity to do so at Portland's Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blood, Bone Marrow, and Organ, Eye and Tissue Donor Registry Drive. This important event takes place on Saturday, January 21 from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Red Cross Portland Donor Center (3131 N. Vancouver Avenue).

Also at the Portland event will be Donate Life Northwest heart recipient Rosie Tabb. Rosie has worked as an American Red Cross donor recruiter and received blood transfusions during her heart transplant. To make a potentially lifesaving blood donation at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blood, Bone Marrow, and Organ, Eye and Tissue Donor Registry Drive, please call 1-800-RED CROSS or visit redcrossblood.org.

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., community members can donate blood, learn more about bone marrow, organ, eye, and tissue donation, and sign up for the donor registries at all three events. The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blood, Bone Marrow, and Organ, Eye and Tissue Donor Registry Drives are co-hosted by the American Red Cross, Be The Match and Donate Life Northwest.

All participants at this year’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blood, Bone Marrow, and Organ, Eye and Tissue Donor Registry Drives will receive a free Martin Luther King, Jr. commemorative lapel pin (while supplies last). These blood drives will also give donors the chance to speak with the Red Cross about our volunteer programs, get informed about disaster preparedness, and share with other volunteers about programs that they may be involved in.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. symbolized equal access for all. This includes equal opportunity for the lifesaving gift of blood, bone marrow and organ, eye and tissue transplants. You can make an incredible difference with your donation.

Superstars of the Civil War Blood Drive

2012-01-12T08:20:00.000-08:00

Students Shahnaz Mooney and Sarah Lowe prove that “leadership is life” with their volunteer efforts

Of the millions of lifesaving blood donations made each year to the Red Cross, almost 20 percent come from high school and college drives. Two dedicated students have taken this statistic to heart. Shahnaz Mooney, from the University of Oregon, and Sarah Lowe, from Oregon State University, attend schools engaged in one of the nation’s oldest rivalries dating back to 1894.

These two volunteers have spent the past few years coming together to bring that 117-year-old competition, known as the “Civil War,” to the playing field of campus blood drives. With the statewide Civil War Blood Drive completing its tenth anniversary in 2011, fans, students, and alumni have spent over a decade donating more than 66,500 units of blood and platelets on behalf of the Beavers or Ducks.

On the campuses alone, OSU continually earns the title of largest single event blood drive for the region and participation at UO has climbed four-fold to match the challenge. Whether fans bleed green or orange, the real winners of the competition are hospital patients in need of transfusions during the winter months.

Many people help facilitate the success of these drives, yet without passionate student leaders like Sarah and Shahnaz, these numbers simply wouldn’t be possible. The Red Cross coordinates with these volunteers through their campus Blood Drive Association (BDA). With several hundred donors attending the drives, the BDA provides the publicity, volunteer training, and recognition efforts that connect the campus with the importance of donating blood.

“I’ve always really wanted to donate,” Shahnaz exclaims, “but because of deferrals from travel and the minimum weight criteria, I’ve always volunteered instead!”

Evidence of both students’ altruism began when they were much younger. Sarah embarked on her philanthropic path to volunteering as early as six years old, baking cookies at her church blood drives. She continued her efforts through blood drives at Newberg High School.

“The first time I gave blood was at my OSU orientation,” Sarah recalls. “The school energy surrounding the drive was so exciting to be a part of.”

Sarah quickly became BDA Vice President of Publicity and Director of Greek Recruitment. Her leadership efforts have led to her current position as President of the BDA and, in spring 2010, she began serving on the Pacific Northwest Blood Services Region Board of Directors. Sarah also takes active roles with Greek life, volunteers as a sexual assault prevention educator, and holds a part-time job in the campus union.

Following a similar path, Shahnaz traced her volunteer efforts back to when she was just 14. “I actually still have a Red Cross blanket I keep nearby,” Shahnaz laughed.

She carried her volunteering experience into Sherwood High School, supporting blood drives and earning the position of Freshman Class President. She then continued to hold Associated Student Board leadership roles until she became Student Body President, capping off her high school career by delivering the introduction for graduation. She was even awarded a Red Cross scholarship for her volunteer efforts with the High School Blood Drive Challenge program.

Even in her “off days” during summer break, Shahnaz volunteered countless hours supporting the “Music Saves Lives” Warped Tour blood drives and the Celebrate Freedom drive in Portland, earning her further recognition from regional leaders of the Red Cross.

Both schools have strong reputations for bringing in donors. Shahnaz attributes this to the culture at the universities, saying that “whether the students see banners, fliers, and table tents around campus, or are enticed by Buddy the Blood Drop, they all donate for the same reasons; to assist those in need, and to show school spirit.”

Sarah agrees, stating “The trophy and blood drop mascot make it fun to participate. It was amazing to see nearly a thousand donation appointments booked by the time of the first OSU campus drive this year.”

The pair has made volunteering a lifestyle; their experience and compassion will bring future blood drives to the next level. “The drives can only get bigger,” Sarah said. “I have faith that we’ll do great things in the future.”

“Everyone involved in the drives shows genuine care,” Shahnaz said. “Any way I can help the Red Cross, I will.”

Every year, thousands of student leaders across the country organize American Red Cross blood drives at their schools. For Sarah and Shahnaz, perhaps the fact that they’re now leading blood drives at rival colleges is for the best: although close friends and former sorority sisters, with the pair’s remarkable leadership and vision, one university may not be big enough for the both of them!

Portland Apartment Fire Displaces Families

2012-01-12T07:46:00.000-08:00

Oregon Red Cross Disaster Action volunteers are responding to an apartment fire on NE San Rafael. Two units were involved in the fire, however the Red Cross is also providing mass care to assist others living at the complex, due to what could be a prolonged power outage. The Red Cross will evaluate the emergency needs of the victims, and provide food, clothing, shelter and other assistance, free of charge, as necessary.

According to a story on the KOIN Local 6 news website, the fire was started by a faulty electrical heater, and caused about 12 units at the Portland Pensione apartment complex to lose power, displaced 25-30 people, and sent one man to the hospital.

Fire officials said power was lost when the fire "compromised a main electrical line." The incident, off Northeast Rodney and San Rafael, was reported at 4:30 a.m. Thursday morning. Portland General Electric crews are working to restore power.

Meanwhile, Oregon Red Cross Disaster Action volunteers have responded and will help the three families displaced by the fire, as well as those who might not have power for a prolonged period of time.

A man inside the apartment where the flames broke out was taken to a hospital for mild smoke inhalation. He was in the shower, getting ready for work, when the fire started. His apartment and everything inside it was destroyed. Two other apartments have water damage from firefighters battling the blaze.

Neighbor Fred Barnum smelled the thick smoke and then saw the flames shooting from the upstairs apartment. "I grabbed the fire extinguisher, but it was like a drop in the bucket; it didn't do anything," said Barnum.

Minutes later, fire crews arrived and put the fire out. Officials estimated $30,000 in damage was done.

The Oregon Red Cross Disaster Action volunteers are currently providing blankets and hot drinks to those affected, and will be making an assessment of shelter needs shortly.

2012-01-12T05:39:00.000-08:00

Without the Red Cross, We Would Have Been Lost

In recognition of the 2nd anniversary of the Haitian earthquake, we've excerpted this powerful piece that was posted on January 10th, 2012 by Kristiana Almeida on the American Red Cross Blog. It originally came from New York’s “Changing Lives: The Story Book” Blog.

Volunteers come from many walks of life. For some, it is a chance to give back to their communities. For Francklin Morose, a volunteer with the American Red Cross on Long Island, it’s much deeper than that— as his journey began with the world literally crumbling at his feet.

Morose was at his accounting job in Port-Au-Prince, Haiti, on Jan. 12, 2010—the day of the worst earthquake in the island nation’s history.

It began with a simple shake he recalled. He and his colleagues thought a big truck had driven by.
“Then,” he said, “everything started to fall down—the walls, the ceiling.”

With all the entrances blocked, Morose and his colleagues were forced to jump to the ground from a second story bathroom window. That’s when they realized an earthquake had struck.

“The whole block was dark; everything had changed,” Morose said.

He described buildings destroyed; communications disrupted; trees down; and people who were bloodied and bruised running through the streets. He made his way home and found it destroyed.

That night, Morose located his family in a park, among hundreds of others that had lost their homes.

Read more at “Changing Lives: The Story Book” Blog.

How the Red Cross is Helping

"Since January 2010, Habitat for Humanity and the American Red Cross have joined together to bring lasting change to families in Haiti. Today, many families left homeless by the earthquake have a safe and decent place to call home because of the commitment and hard work of our local teams. I wish to thank the American Red Cross for their partnership in bringing housing and hope to the people of Haiti." - Jonathan Reckford, chief executive officer, Habitat for Humanity.

Thanks to the generosity of our donors, the American Red Cross is still at work in Haiti, rebuilding what the earthquake destroyed and working with local communities to make them safer and healthier. We have built homes, given people opportunities to earn money, provided access to clean water and sanitation systems, supported the delivery of health care, and taught communities how to prevent the spread of diseases and to be better prepared for future disasters. While our plans may evolve to respond to changing needs, in the coming years we will continue to help people leave camps to return to communities, and we will work to make these communities safe, healthy and vibrant.Learn more about the Red Cross response in Haiti.

Learn more about the Red Cross response.

Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up

2012-01-11T22:51:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Worldwide Wednesday Wrap-Up, in which we consolidate the international Red Cross and Red Crescent news into one list of bite-sized links for you. It's a non-comprehensive sampling of the larger and/or more intriguing aspects of our global work...

INDIA: On the morning of December 30th, Cyclone Thane battered India’s south-east coast causing thousands to flee from their homes. In its wake, the cyclone left an immense trail of destruction. Early action by volunteers of the Indian Red Cross Society deployed before the disaster was able to reduce the impact of the severe storm. Working closely with the authorities, the Red Cross helped to evacuate people from low-lying coastal areas and sent out warnings through its district branches.

SOUTH SUDAN: Violence in Pibor County, Jonglei State, has left thousands of people displaced and many wounded. The ICRC is working with the South Sudan Red Cross (SSRC) to help health facilities cope with an influx of casualties. ICRC teams based at regional Training hospitals are treating hundreds of people, distributing medical supplies, and helping to reunite families separated by fighting.

GUINEA-BISSAU: Between December 30th, 2011, and January 6th, 2012, the ICRC visited 38 military personnel arrested in connection with disturbances in Guinea-Bissau on 26 December. The visits took place in Mansoa military prison and at Armura air base in Bissau, and essential relief supplies were provided for the detainees.

MAURITANIA: A team from the IFRC has been visiting villages to assess food security problems in Mauritania. A lack of rainfall and poor access to water sources has had a major impact on agricultural production. The Mauritanian Red Crescent, with partners from a number of National Societies, are running programs to help and encourage gardening activities, growing food that is less dependent on abundant rains.

GLOSSARY:

ICRC = International Committee of the Red Cross
IFRC = International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies

Weiss-Parker Family Reaches Year Thirty-Seven in Blood Donation Legacy

2012-01-11T16:05:00.000-08:00

On January 7, 2012, four generations of the Weiss-Parker family assembled at the American Red Cross Red Cross Portland Donor Center, just north of Legacy Emanuel Hospital to give blood together as a family tradition for the thirty-seventh year! After giving blood, they continued their tradition by having family breakfast at a local pancake house.

Family representative, Sam Weiss, son of Morris Weiss, wants others to learn about giving blood to the American Red Cross. "In this day and age of families struggling to maintain a quality of family life, traditions such as this contribute significantly to the family bonding together. Bonding together not only as an extended family, but a family that has found a way to contribute to other families by their gift of life."

The blood donation tradition was started by Morris Weiss in 1976 as a "Living New Year’s Resolution" and he demonstrated his commitment by donating 22 gallons of blood during his lifetime. "The family is continuing where Morris left off making just over 1,300 blood donations to help hospital patients in need" said, Daphne Mathew, American Red Cross spokesperson. "When you consider that blood can be separated into several different components –- often helping more than one patient -- their contribution is even more impactful."

This Saturday! Watch and Support Miss Oregon in the 2012 Miss America Competition!

2012-01-11T15:45:00.000-08:00

In our ongoing partnership with Miss Oregon Caroline McGowan, we'd like to invite everyone to watch and support her this Saturday night as she promotes her Red Cross platform in the Miss America competition! The competition airs on ABC on January 14, 2012 at 6 p.m. PT (9 p.m. ET)

Additionally, if you haven't already done so, please view, vote for and share Caroline's Miss America video contest submission! She showcases local roots (and some impressive whistling talent) in her parody video of an award-winning Old Spice ad, featuring Portland actor Isaiah Mustafa and created by acclaimed Portland ad agency Weiden+Kennedy.

Please click this link to view her video, vote for Miss Oregon and spread the word as she represents the Red Cross this Saturday at the Miss America competition!

Why Should Red Cross Emergency Gear Look So Sexy?

2012-01-10T07:31:00.000-08:00

If the beauty was just skin deep, the American Red Cross wouldn't have put their brand on Eton's Turbodyne series.

During a blackout, earthquake, or other scary emergency, aesthetics are likely to be the last thing on your mind. But that doesn't mean they don't still serve an important purpose, as Eton's Turbodyne series of American Red Cross-branded emergency gear shows. Designed by Whipsaw, this gear is to getting out of a jam what the iPod is to pumping out the jams: form married to function in the best possible way.

The industrial design of the Turbodyne set was meant "to be more emotional and more appealing than the typical emergency tool, so that people wanted to own them and use them on a regular basis, even when [there is] no emergency," Whipsaw president Dan Harden tells Co.Design. Indeed, these look more like designer toys than dependable tools at first glance. But that emotional appeal has a serious purpose, Harden explains: "Pride of ownership also means they will more likely be out and ready for use instead of being relegated to the basement or the emergency kit."

"On emergency products, non-ornamental and informative aesthetics can play an important functional and human factors role," Harden continues. "Bold forms, expressive details and high contrast colors can express function and operation so clearly that it takes no thought to find and use the product - which is of course good in an emergency when you just can’t think." For additional information on the products in this series, or to make a purchase, go to the American Red Cross store.

(Excerpted from an article by John Pavlus; originally printed by Fast Company Design at http://www.fastcodesign.com/)

2011 Year in Pictures from the American Red Cross

2012-01-09T11:12:00.000-08:00

From responding to record-breaking tornadoes, to rebuilding in Haiti, to teaching lifesaving skills to 11,000 people on Gabrielle Giffords Honorary Save-a-Life Saturday, 2011 has been a busy year for the American Red Cross, as seen in these photos.

Fire Hurts: Red Cross Helps

2012-01-06T12:22:00.000-08:00

On Thursday, January 05, 2012 at 8:19pm, Oregon Red Cross volunteer Kenneth Rislow responded with humanitarian assistance to a duplex fire in the 700 block of Erie Avenue, Astoria, OR. On site Red Cross volunteers assisted one adult, one child and a dog by providing, free of charge, assistance with immediate lodging, food, comfort kit, and information about Health and Mental Health services to insure the safety and well-being of those displaced in this fire.

On Friday, January 06, 2012 at 3:08am, volunteers from the Oregon Red Cross also responded with humanitarian assistance to a 2-alarm house fire in the 3300 block of SW Golf Course Road, Cornelius, OR. Red Cross volunteers assisted two adults and three dogs by providing, free of charge, immediate lodging, food, clothing, comfort kits and information about Health and Mental Health service to insure the safety and well-being of those displaced in this fire.

Firefighters determined the blaze was caused from an electrical malfunction near an electrical panel, located in the residence's garage, said Matt Johnston, a Forest Grove Fire & Rescue inspector who serves as a spokesman for the Cornelius Fire Department. Johnston said the initial damage estimate to the home is $30,000.

Johnston also said the home did not have any smoke alarms, so the residents were fortunate to notice the fire. Firefighters encourage residents to have a working alarm on each floor and outside bedrooms.