Local needs exist, too
Most people don't think much about the American Red Cross — that is, until disaster strikes.
Then they realize just how valuable that organization is, providing shelter, food, clothing, and other necessities for individuals and families devastated by tragedy.
But the Red Cross does more than give families who've lost their homes from fire a place to stay. The organization also sponsors blood drives, runs CPR classes, and helps needy families with their heating bills — to name just a few services.
But lately, funding to the local Red Cross chapter — the Sunflower Chapter, which serves McPherson and Marion counties — has dwindled.
The cause? A variety of reasons. But the main one results from the attacks of Sept. 11.
After that horrendous day, Americans saw the tragedies of New York, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania, and responded to the needs of the victims' families. They sent money to the United Way, the national Red Cross, the Sept. 11 Fund.
These are all worthy causes, of course. No one can deny the enormous needs that existed there — and still exist.
But in the process, Americans forgot other needy families: the ones that live right in their own backyards.
March is American Red Cross month. Use it to donate to your local chapter — and see that money given right back to your friends acquaintances that need it.
The mantra of local businesses has always been shop at home. In this case, it's a little different: give at home.
— JENNIFER WILSON
