The Red Cross Sign
Just like anywhere else, the holiday season brings about many hardships and pressures on families that are struggling to get by. However, Athens has several fundraising and support programs in place to help those in need. In this post, I’d like to briefly go over some of the major organizations heading this effort in Athens, as well as share an email interview I did with Jane Patton, the Health and Safety Director of Athens County’s Red Cross Chapter.
In my E-interview with Jane Patton, I asked her questions about what the Red Cross does to prepare for the holiday season and how economy will affect people in Athens. She also told me about what the Red Cross does on a year-round basis. Here are her answers:
1. The Red Cross has four main areas of interest. We have Blood Services to collect lifesaving blood donations. We have Military Services for emergency situations. We have Health and Safety services to provide training in CPR and first aid. And we also have Disaster Services to respond to natural disasters like floods and fires, giving people shelter and food.
2. To prepare for the holiday season, contact is made with victims of disasters served within the past year to provide holiday presents to the children.
3. The recent economy has affected the needy in Athens County. The amount of phone calls and walk-ins has increased from those in need. Most often requests are made for services this agency does not provide, such as help with utility bills, food, etc. While we are unable to provide direct help, we do make referrals to other agencies. Unemployment and a slow economy no doubt will play a factor this holiday season.
Some other organizations that do a wonderful service to those in need in Athens County are:
Good Works – a fundraising program that helps impoverished people and often provides free meals.
ACJFS – Athens County Job and Family Services, provides support to local families and the unemployed.
The Salvation Army – Does fundraising and maintains a food pantry for the needy.
With the help of these organizations and the caring volunteer citizens of Athens, we can all help make a difference this holiday season!
-Tyler
