Letter to the editor: Red Cross Month honors neighbors who give hope when help can’t wait
To the editor:
As our country marks its 250th year, I’ve been thinking about what truly brings communities together. For me, it always comes down to people — neighbors caring for neighbors. In my role as executive director for the Red Cross North Carolina Cape Fear Chapter, I get to see that kindness every day through our lifesaving mission, which has been part of our country’s fabric for more than half of those 250 years.
Every March, we observe Red Cross Month to honor the people who deliver support when help can’t wait. Here in our community, that compassion may be a volunteer comforting a family after a home fire, a blood donor helping a patient they’ll never meet, or a neighbor donating what they can to deliver hope in someone’s darkest hours.
Collectively, the impact is extraordinary. Last year, Red Cross volunteers and supporters helped 44 Lenoir County residents after a disaster, providing more than $13,000 in financial assistance. Additionally, 51 households were made safer through the installation of 127 free smoke alarms in the county. Behind every number is someone who found relief in a moment of loss or uncertainty.
This work continues because people choose to take part in whatever way is right for them — whether it’s making a financial donation, giving blood, sharing their time, or learning lifesaving skills like CPR and first aid. Every contribution matters because, together, we create a community where compassion has real power.
I also want to recognize Bill Taylor for his incredible work as the Lenoir County Community Volunteer Leader. In this role, we serve in partnership to deliver the American Red Cross mission locally. Under his leadership we have increased our presence in the community and mobilized new volunteers to serve Lenoir and neighboring Cape Fear communities.
This Red Cross Month, we invite everyone to be part of our mission. Visit redcross.org to learn how you can help. When we care for one another, we pass forward the best of who we are — to the next generation and beyond.
Sincerely,
Darren Allison, Executive Director
Cape Fear Chapter, American Red Cross, North Carolina
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