Everyday heroes honored during Red Cross month

March is Red Cross Month and the American Red Cross isrecognizing New Jersey’s every day heroes who bring help and hope to people in need. Events honoring outstanding volunteers, as well as those celebrating milestone years of service, will be held throughout the month.
“Every day I’m inspired by the many New Jersey heroes who help their neighbors when they need it most,” said Ana Montero, CEO, American Red Cross New Jersey Region. “They include our compassionate Red Cross volunteers, selfless blood donors and generous supporters who are there to help people facing life’s emergencies. We are grateful for their tremendous support.”
March has been recognized as Red Cross Month for more than 70 years. Beginning with President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1943, every U.S. President has designated March as Red Cross Month to recognize how the American Red Cross helps people across the country and around the world.
The Red Cross depends on local heroes to fulfill its mission. Last year, the Red Cross New Jersey Region responded to more than 760 local disasters, such as home fires, and helped more than 1,800 New Jersey families with emergency assistance for temporary lodging, food and clothing needs; provided 3,500 military family case services, trained more than 116,100 people with lifesaving skills, installed 7,900 free smoke alarms and collected 89,100 units of blood through blood drives and Red Cross Blood Donation Centers.
“Become a Red Cross community hero,” said Montero. “Be ready for an emergency by creating a preparedness plan for your home. Test your smoke alarms and tell your neighbors to do the same. You can sign up to be a Red Cross volunteer or make a financial donation.”
People can find information about volunteer opportunities, blood donation and other ways to support the work of the Red Cross by visiting redcross.org/NJ.