Student will live to see graduation because of duo’s quick action

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By Doug Bardwell, American Red Cross volunteer

July 24, 2020- Imagine seeing a high school student fall to the ground while watching a football team practice. Would your first inclination be to assume he was horsing around? Fortunately, Shamara Golden, a student at Youngstown State University, was watching and had a sense there was more to it than that.

Shamara and athletic trainer Alex McCaskey rushed to his aid. Finding that he was still breathing and still had a pulse, but was unresponsive and unconscious, Alex stayed by his side and called 911. Shamara ran for the AED machine and medical kit.

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Shamara Golden with her Red Cross Certificate of Merit

While she was gone, the student stopped breathing. Alex immediately began CPR. As she returned, Alex cut open his shirt as Shamara attached the AED pads for assessment. Following the instructions on the AED, they delivered a shock, which caused him to start breathing again.

Once the victim began to breathe again, Alex stabilized the victim’s spine while Shamara rolled the victim into recovery position. While waiting for the ambulance to arrive, the victim stopped breathing again and the AED advised to continue CPR. Alex began to again administer five rounds of CPR until the ambulance arrived.

“I received a call from the boy’s mother when he was taken off the ventilator in the hospital,” recalled Alex. “That was an amazing feeling, getting that call. After that, a number of the Warren G. Harding High School administration members came down to congratulate Shamara and me at future football games.”

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Virtual award presentation featuring Greater Akron and the Mahoning Valley Chapter Executive Director Rachel Telegdy, Northern Ohio Region CEO Mike Parks, Dr. Morgan Bagley, Shamara Golden and Alex McCaskey

“The day after it happened,” explained Shamara, “I didn’t mention it to my class, because I still hadn’t heard how the boy was doing. After we heard that he was fine, my classmates found out and there were cheers all around.”

Alex and Shamara were nominated for American Red Cross lifesaving awards by Dr. Morgan Bagley, associate professor at Youngstown State University where Shamara was studying to become an athletic trainer.

Alex received the Certificate of Extraordinary Personal Action for those who step up in an emergency to save or sustain a life. Shamara received the Certificate of Merit, the highest award given by the Red Cross to a person who saves a life using the skills and knowledge learned in an American Red Cross Training Services course.

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Alex McCaskey

“I’m so proud of both of them,” said Dr. Bagley. “Shamara told me, ‘It’s just like you said, we have to constantly practice to be prepared for anything and everything.’”

Without a doubt, the skills learned in the American Red Cross CPR and AED Training class helped to save the life of this student.

You, too, can sign up and receive training in CPR, AED and First Aid with the Red Cross. Online classes are available. Click here to get started.

Edited by Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer

Future of Northern Ohio’s American Red Cross bright with new Young Professionals Council leadership

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By Chris Chmura, American Red Cross volunteer

July 22, 2020- Our Northern Ohio Red Cross welcomed a new Young Professionals Council leadership team July 1. The team is dedicated to the YPC and the mission of the American Red Cross and will help create a positive, new chapter for the council. The new leadership of the YPC includes Jasmine Boutros of KeyBank, chair; Adam Joines  of Jones Day, vice-chair; and Ali DeCrane of CBIZ, secretary.

The council is a dedicated group of mission-minded young professionals who support the Red Cross through volunteerism, outreach and special events. The YPC consists of four committees: Onboarding/Engagement Committee, Social Committee, Service Committee and Professional Development Committee.

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Young Professional Council members in November held a netorking lunchon with Don Kimble of KeyBank

The Northern Ohio Region’s YPC was formed in 2017 when Northern Ohio Regional CEO Mike Parks and the board of directors expressed an interest in engaging more young people in the mission of the Red Cross, expanding its volunteer base and infusing fresh new ideas into the organization. Over the next year, the YPC grew from a group of five individuals, to a group of 20.

Since the inception of the YPC, its members have volunteered hundreds of hours for the Red Cross, including participating in numerous Sound the Alarm events, hosting Missing Maps mapathons, supporting veterans at the VA, and assisting with blood drives throughout the region. The YPC holds quarterly professional development events, inviting top business leaders from the community (often times a Red Cross board member) to share their insights and advice with the group. The YPC also holds quarterly social events, including networking opportunities and dinners.

I asked why these individuals committed to the Red Cross in leadership roles and solicited their thoughts on the need for young volunteers.

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YPC Vice-Chair Adam Joines donating blood at a blood drive at Saucy Brew Works in Cleveland

Jasmine, chair, explained, “I’m passionate about the work of the Red Cross because I started my career in pediatric oncology. Working with kids fighting cancer and receiving regular transfusions, I’ve seen firsthand the impact Red Cross programs like blood drives can have on our most vulnerable population. It’s important for young professionals to get involved because we are the people who can create the momentum to make long, lasting changes to our community.”

Adam, vice-chair, said, “Volunteering establishes a sense of perspective. Whether it is installing smoke alarms in others’ homes, giving blood and following its journey to a patient, playing drums with veterans and families in therapeutic “jam sessions,” or consoling a family suddenly homeless after a fire, each opportunity provides a glimpse into another facet of life that the volunteer might not otherwise experience. Volunteering gives young people the opportunity to “walk a mile in another person’s shoes” and recognize the world from another angle.”

Secretary Ali DeCrane stated, “Growing up as the daughter of a fireman and teacher, the importance of helping those in need when you are able to was instilled in me from an early age. I felt that I needed to invest my time in helping those in our community and society who needed it. This organization was a natural fit for me, as my own values aligned so well with the fundamental principles it promotes. As a young professional, I believe that it is now our turn to take responsibility for building a better world for all people. My advice to young professionals is to make time to get involved because it will give you experiences and relationships that you will value for the rest of your life.”

Red Cross staff is grateful for Jasmine, Adam and Ali for their valuable time, energy and passion. They look forward to collaborating with them to advance the organization’s mission.

YPC membership offers:

  • Networking opportunities with fellow philanthropic young professionals and community leaders
  • A chance to volunteer for the world’s most recognized charity
  • Leadership opportunities in areas including: event planning, fundraising and mission deliver

 

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Members of the YPC with Brinton Lincoln, Vice President of Military Markets for Selman & Company, during a networking event

For more information on how you or someone you know can become involved with the Red Cross of Northern Ohio’s Young Professionals Council, contact Carolyn Wild at 216-346-8220 or carolyn.wild2@redcross.org.

Edited By Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer

Seeking hero volunteers: The need is great; the reward, greater

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By Sue Wilson, American Red Cross volunteer

July 20, 2020- It has been a tumultuous 2020 so far. A global pandemic, waves of protests for social justice, a massive economic downturn and a volatile political environment in an election year. And it’s only July. But amidst the chaos, there is hope. We see it shine in stories of everyday heroes— first responders, medical workers and essential employees. While most of America is trying to cope with the stress of the pandemic, we can find comfort knowing there is an organization full of heroes working quietly behind the scenes, whose sole mission is to plan for the worst, so that we don’t have to. The volunteer heroes of the American Red Cross.

The Red Cross provides support to victims of disasters, and supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood. They depend on volunteers to perform their mission. Right now they are short-handed, especially in the area of blood services and disaster volunteers. Planning for a natural disaster, like a hurricane or wildfire, is a challenge any time, but especially during this pandemic. Emily Probst is the regional disaster workforce engagement manager for the Red Cross Northern Ohio Region. She coordinates the deployment of local volunteers when natural disasters occur.

Southern Storms and Tornadoes 2020

“Currently our biggest challenge is finding volunteers who are willing to deploy in the COVID environment.” said Emily.

Melanie Collins, regional volunteer recruitment specialist for the Red Cross of Northern Ohio agrees that recruiting new volunteers and keeping current ones at this time has presented some challenges.

April 26, 2020. Onalaska, Texas. Liesa Hackett of The American Red Cross does damage assessment in Onalaska, TX, on Sunday, April 26, 2020. A powerful tornado damaged hundreds of homes in the community earlier in the week. Photo by Scott Dalton/American Red Cross
May 19, 2020. Columbus, Ohio. Rich Tawny, Red Cross volunteer driver, moves boxes of blood products to prepare for delivery to patients in need at hospitals. Photo by Craig Miller/American Red Cross

“A lot of our current volunteers who are ages 60+ have decided to not volunteer at this time– which is completely understandable as the health and safety of our workforce comes first and foremost,” said Melanie. “At the same time, we saw a huge increase in volunteer applications over the last few months. Those who are healthy and willing to volunteer have stepped up to give their time.”

People have been hesitant to donate blood, so there is a blood shortage. But when donors do  give, the Red Cross needs volunteer blood donor ambassadors to check the temperatures of potential donors and staff so a phlebotomist does not have to be pulled away. Melanie said donors and volunteers can feel safe going to a blood donation center because several enhanced blood donation protocols have been put into place.

Texas Tornadoes 2020

In the event of a natural disaster requiring the opening of shelters, there will be a need for volunteers in those shelters. Additional safety measures have been implemented for disasters. “Our disaster response has gone almost completely virtual,” said Melanie. “If a home fire or other disaster can’t be responded to virtually, social distancing measures are put in place.”

Volunteers give their time and talents. In return, they get a sense of purpose and pride in helping others. The need is great for volunteers in the areas of local engagement, blood services, deployment opportunities, sheltering and disaster health. A complete list of volunteer needs is available here. If you are interested in a rewarding volunteer opportunity, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday. You can also reach out to the volunteer services department at NOHvolunteer@redcross.org or contact Melanie Collins via email or call 330-204-6615.

Edited by Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer

 

 

Got ink? You can still give blood

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By Christy Peters, External Communications Manager, Northern Ohio Biomedical Services

July 17, 2020- In honor of National Tattoo Day today we’re debunking the myth that those with tattoos can’t give blood. On June 8, the American Red Cross implemented new changes to donor eligibility criteria that may make it even easier for those with tattoos to give!

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In most states, including Ohio, there is no waiting period to give blood if your tattoo was applied in a state-regulated facility. The District of Columbia, Georgia, Idaho, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Utah and Wyoming do not regulate tattoo facilities. If you received a tattoo in one of these states, the waiting period to give has gone from 12 months to three months.

If you are an individual currently deferred with the Red Cross for a tattoo under the former policy, your donor record will be updated by the end of July to align with the new policy. If you would like to have your donor record updated prior to then, donors can contact the Red Cross Donor and Client Support Center at 1-866-236-3276 for more immediate action. Please be aware that deferrals cannot be removed onsite at our blood drives or donation centers.

 

The Red Cross currently has an urgent need for blood donors to help ensure patients receive the lifesaving blood products they need. Healthy, eligible donors are encouraged to make an appointment in the coming weeks. To schedule a time to give, download the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device. Donors are required to wear a face covering or mask while at the drive, in alignment with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention public guidance and recent local and state mandates. To learn more about donor eligibility, visit RedCrossBlood.org/eligibility.

May 29, 2020. Rockville, Maryland. Whole blood donor Gloria Thornton. Photo by Dennis Drenner/American Red Cross
May 29, 2020. Rockville, Maryland. Donor Kairy Quinonez. Photo by Dennis Drenner/American Red Cross
May 29, 2020. Rockville, Maryland. Donor Robert Atkinson. Photo by Dennis Drenner/American Red Cross

 

Scared of needles? That is okay! You can help the Red Cross assist patients in need of lifesaving blood by becoming a volunteer blood donor ambassador at Red Cross blood drives. Visit redcross.org/volunteertoday to learn more and to apply.

Edited by Glenda Bogar, Red Cross volunteer

Preventing wildfires, right here in Ohio

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By Beth Bracale, American Red Cross volunteer

July 15, 2020- Wildfires? In Ohio? Absolutely. Ohio’s Emergency Management System (EMS) reports in its Hazard Mitigation Plan, that hundreds of wildfires occur in Ohio each year. Most of them are caused by humans, either on purpose or accidentally. Common causes besides arson are the burning of cleared debris, campfires, smoking and, of course, children playing with lighters or matches. The fires in Ohio are not on the catastrophic size of those in the western United States, but they can still do great damage.

California Wildfires 2018

Wildfires are especially dangerous when they happen in areas surrounded by homes and businesses. Last year, for example, a fire got out of control in a Conneaut farm field near care facilities for both seniors and developmentally disabled adults. Even though it was relatively small, you can imagine the panic the fire caused. In recent years, flames have roared through the Mentor Marsh, which is surrounded by densely populated communities. I personally witnessed a wildfire spring up during a dry spell not long ago. While driving on I-90 I was stunned to see pine trees engulfed in flames along the side of the freeway. Fortunately, fire teams were able to put out the fire before it got farther out of control.

It’s important to know the fire guidelines for where you live. Open burning during daylight hours is often prohibited in the months when wildfires are hardest to control. While July isn’t regularly on that list, dry weather conditions like we’ve experienced create greater risk. According to the National Weather Service’s online Fire Weather page for our region on the last day of June, a dry spell of nearly two weeks was predicted. That included the 4th of July weekend, traditionally celebrated with cookouts, campfires and fireworks.

California Wildfires 2018

Social distancing due to COVID-19 caused many such events to be canceled, community fireworks displays among them. Unfortunately, that encouraged many individuals to create fireworks displays of their own.

According to a June 20 Wilmington News Journal article, mishandled fireworks also cause fires, with July among the busiest days for professional firefighters. Fireworks started an estimated 19,500 fires last year, including 1,900 structure fires, 500 vehicle fires and 17,100 outside and other fires.”

California Wildfires 2019

What can you do to keep wildfire risk at a minimum?

  • Water the area around a site where you plan to build a fire.
  • If a garden hose won’t reach the burn site, be sure to have buckets of water nearby.
  • Be aware of the direction in which the wind is blowing. Do not light fires when wind is high or gusty.
  • Remove anything from the area that might catch on fire from flying sparks.
  • Never leave a fire unattended. Soak the burning material thoroughly when you are done.

California Wildfires 2017

The American Red Cross responds when disasters such as wildfires occur, even on a small scale. To learn more about this and other services provided by the Red Cross in our area, visit redcross.org/NOH.

If you would like to volunteer to assist those suffering from a disaster both here in Northern Ohio and across the country, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday.

Northern Ohio Region weekend disaster report: July 10-12, 2020

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By Eric Alves, American Red Cross of Northern Ohio 

July 13, 2020- The coronavirus is a topic that is on the top of everyone’s mind in Northern Ohio. We are all concerned about the new increase in cases, which is why over the weekend the American Red Cross of Northern Ohio lent a helping hand to those helping keep our communities safer.

On Friday, July 10, the Red Cross of Northwest Ohio helped support the COVID-19 testing site on Put-in-Bay by providing snacks, beverages and lunch for the essential workers who were administering the tests to the workers on South Bass Island.

In addition to providing support to the COVID-19 testing site over the weekend, the Red Cross responded to local disasters, such as home fires and storm damage, in Columbiana, Cuyahoga, Lucas, Putnam, Summit, Trumbull and Wayne counties.

In addition to providing comfort and support to 46 residents during their time of need, the Disaster Action Team provided the residents $11,980 in immediate financial assistance.

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To date in the new fiscal year, which began on July 1, the Red Cross of Northern Ohio has assisted 117 adults, 84 children and has provided $44,900 in immediate financial assistance.

Volunteers make up 90 percent of our workforce. Our volunteers are without a doubt the face of the Red Cross. If you are interested in helping your local community, we have a wide variety volunteer opportunities, including important volunteer-from-home opportunities available. There truly is an opportunity for everyone. Find your opportunity today by visiting redcross.org/volunteer.

Furthermore, have you or someone you know recovered from COVID-19 and you would like to help others recover? The Red Cross is calling on individuals who have recovered from the coronavirus to donate convalescent plasma to aid in the treatment of others suffering from the virus.

To donate, visit RedCrossBlood.org and fill out the donor eligibility form.

Red Cross CPR training helps individuals save co-worker in Austintown

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By Eilene Guy, American Red Cross volunteer

July 10, 2020- If a loved one or colleague – or even a stranger – suddenly collapsed in front of you, what would you do?

Fortunately for 61-year-old Mark Eitner, his coworkers at Nordson Xaloy Inc., in Austintown, Ohio, knew exactly what to do. They saved his life.

“Thank you doesn’t seem like enough to say,” Mark said, “but on behalf of my wife and my children, thank you!”

CPR Stock Photography 2018

Mark was on hand last week for an American Red Cross ceremony to honor the men who saved his life: Jim Shepard and Richard Santucci.

When Mark went down next to a machine he was working on, Jim immediately recognized the situation was serious and alerted others on the maintenance team to call 9-1-1. Richard – a safety team member who just weeks earlier had taken a refresher for his Red Cross first aid, CPR and AED course – stepped in to take action.

Based on his training, Richard could tell Mark needed CPR, to keep blood flowing, taking oxygen to his brain. He also recognized Mark’s heart needed stimulation from an AED. Richard was able to administer both.

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Virtual award presentation for the Nordson Xaloy Inc. employees

Studies show CPR can double a person’s chance of surviving a heart attack, but only about a third of those who suffer cardiac arrest outside of a hospital receive bystander CPR, according to the American Heart Association. Mark got a fighting chance at survival, thanks to Richard and Jim.

Rachel Telegdy, executive director of the American Red Cross of Greater Akron and the Mahoning Valley, presented Jim with a Certificate for Extraordinary Personal Action.  This certificate recognizes people who step up in an emergency to help save or sustain a life, exemplifying the mission of the Red Cross to prevent and alleviate human suffering in emergencies.

For his part, Richard received the Red Cross Certificate of Merit, the organization’s highest award, given to people who save or sustain a life using skills and knowledge learned in Red Cross training. The certificate is signed by the president of the United States, who is the honorary chair of the American Red Cross, and the chairman of the Red Cross.

“It’s my honor (to receive the award),” Richard said. “Without your support and training, I wouldn’t have been able to do what I did.”

CPR Stock Photography 2018

Richard has gone on to get certified to teach Red Cross first aid, CPR and AED, paying it forward to enable others to respond in an emergency. He noted that there was an overwhelming response from the Nordson workforce to get Red Cross training in the wake of Mark’s emergency.

“Heroes are all around us. But they’re not common.  To act quickly and decisively during a crisis takes a level of courage reserved only for a few,” Rachel said.

“It’s our hope your heroic actions inspire others to get trained in skills that save lives.”

To find a Red Cross first aid, CPR and AED course – and be ready to save a life – go to redcross.org/take-a-class.

Click here to view the virtual awared presentation.

Edited by Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer

Tips for keeping your pets safe in the summer heat

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By Samantha Pudelski, American Red Cross volunteer

July 9, 2020- During the hot summer months, we’re all looking for ways to keep cool and beat the heat. However, it isn’t just people who need to be safe during hot summer days—our pets need to stay cool as well. Heat and humidity can be dangerous for our pets, so the American Red Cross wants you to know it’s important to follow these tips to keep them safe on hot days.

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  • NEVER leave your pets in the car. This may seem obvious, but you want to make sure you are mindful of this before bringing your dog or pet with you along for a ride. Even just running into the store for 5-10 minutes can be dangerous. On a 75-degree day, temperatures can reach over 100 degrees in a vehicle within 30 minutes, even with a window cracked.
  • If you see a pet in a hot car, take action. Write down the make, model and license plate number of the vehicle and alert a manager in the business so they can assist with finding the owners. If the owner does not return promptly, call local animal control or the police department through their non-emergency number to report the situation.
  • Be aware of hot surfaces your dog is walking on. If it’s too hot for your bare feet to walk on, it is too hot for your dog’s feet too. A dog’s feet pads need to be protected, since dogs sweat through their feet and their pads are sensitive.
  • Give your pet plenty of water. Give your pet plenty of fresh, clean, cool water to drink throughout the day. If you go on a walk, make sure to bring a water bottle and a collapsible pet bowl to help prevent your dog from dehydrating.
  • Find a shady spot. If your pets spend a lot of time outside, make sure they have a cool, shady place to keep cool. An area with good airflow, like a shady tree, will allow your pet to take a break from the sun to cool off.

Red Cross pet photo 2018

If your pet experiences heat stroke, make sure to act quickly. Read these six steps to take if you suspect your pet has heat stroke.

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For more tips on how you can keep your pets safe, or provide first aid to your beloved animal, download the Pet First Aid app from the American Red Cross. The app includes instructions for first aid emergencies and emergency preparedness plans for your pet and more. The Red Cross also offers a free, 35-minute First Aid online course focused on pet first aid and safety at redcross.org/catdogfirstaid.

Red Cross joins forces with WONDER WOMAN 1984 to save the day for patients in need

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By Christy Peters, External Communications Manager, Northern Ohio Biomedical Services

July 8, 2020- This July, the American Red Cross and WONDER WOMAN 1984 are joining forces to save the day for patients in need of lifesaving blood transfusions. The Red Cross has an urgent need for blood donors this summer, as the COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented supply challenges amid this uncertain environment. Additionally, despite states lifting stay-at-home orders and reopening, many blood drives at businesses and community organizations continue to be cancelled as these locations remain closed or restrict the number of individuals at any location.

As part of the partnership, the Red Cross is organizing an epic prop replica giveaway from the new Warner Bros. Pictures film WONDER WOMAN 1984, due to hit theaters nationwide on Oct. 2. This giveaway was designed to thank heroes who roll up a sleeve and help patients battling illness and injury. Those who show up to donate blood and platelets through July 31 will automatically be entered for a chance to win an authentic WONDER WOMAN 1984 movie prop replica package, which includes the Golden Lasso and a pair of Gauntlets, identical to WONDER WOMAN’s from the film.*

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Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood—kids battling cancer, accident victims being raced into emergency rooms and new moms with complicated childbirths. The Northern Ohio Blood Services Region needs to collect approximately 500 pints of blood to meet the needs of patients at more than 70 local hospitals. Unfortunately, only 3 out of 100 Americans donate blood.

While tens of thousands of donors gave blood in response to an initial blood shortage caused by this coronavirus outbreak, it’s important to remember that red blood cells must be transfused within 42 days of donation, and platelets within just five days, so they must constantly be replenished. If you are feeling well, please make an appointment to give by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Scheduling Skill on any Alexa Echo device. Blood and platelet donors in Northern Ohio can also visit one of three donation centers, located in Cleveland, Parma or Akron.

Blood Donation during COVID-19

Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arrival and are required to wear a face covering or mask while at the drive, in alignment with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention public guidance, as well as following recent mandates from the City of Cleveland and Cuyahoga County.

Donors can save up to 15 minutes at the blood drive by completing a RapidPass®. With RapidPass®, donors complete the pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of donation, from a mobile device or computer. To complete a RapidPass®, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

In most states, individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

 

*Terms and conditions apply. Valid email address is required. Limit five (5) entries per presenting donor. Winner will be selected and notified via the email listed in their American Red Cross donor profile on or around Aug. 10, 2020. Offer is non-transferable and not redeemable for cash. Void where prohibited. Giveaway begins July 1, 2020 and ends July 31, 2020. Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. and its parents, affiliates and subsidiaries are not responsible for the promotion, administration or execution of this giveaway.

Edited By Glenda Bogar, American Red Cross volunteer

Northern Ohio Region weekend disaster report: July 3-5, 2020

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By Eric Alves, American Red Cross of Northern Ohio

July 6, 2020- The Fourth of July is a significant time in Northern Ohio. Despite the coronavirus changing or putting a hold on many traditions, it is still an opportunity to relax and create some memories.

However for some in Northern Ohio, the tranquility of the holiday weekend was disrupted by a disaster.

Texas Tornadoes 2020

Luckily, the dedicated members of the American Red Cross of Northern Ohio Disaster Action Team were ready to help residents in need at a moment’s notice, to provide support and comfort, despite their own plans.

Over the holiday weekend, the Red Cross of Northern Ohio responded to several local disasters, including five multi-family home fires in Akron, Cleveland and Toledo, a water main break in South Euclid and a fireworks explosion in Toledo.

During the active weekend, the DAT team assisted 109 individuals in Columbiana, Cuyahoga, Lucas, Mahoning, Seneca, Stark, Summit and Trumbull counties, and provided more than $22,800 in immediate financial assistance.

DAT home fire responses Atlanta, Georgia video screenshots 2019

As the largest humanitarian organization in the world, the Red Cross has the ability to use your donation to reach more people in need, more quickly. Your donation to the Red Cross helps provide food, shelter, relief supplies, emotional support, recovery planning and other assistance during disasters.

To help the Red Cross provide hope and comfort to individuals following a disaster, please visit redcross.org/donate to provide a financial donation. Any amount donated truly helps with their recovery.

Volunteers, such as members of the DAT team, are the face of the Red Cross. Without their tremendous and selfless dedication, we would not be able to serve the 31 counties and 5.3 million residents of Northern Ohio.

Texas Tornadoes 2020

Be one of the many volunteers that make up 90 percent of the Red Cross’ workforce and help others in need in your local community by becoming a Red Cross volunteer today. Visit redcross.org/volunteer to learn more and to apply.