Governor declares March ‘Red Cross Month’

Posted

By Cindi Shank

Special to The SUN

Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper has proclaimed March “Red Cross Month” in Colorado, in keeping with a national tradition. During Red Cross Month, the American Red Cross recognizes the many everyday heroes who give of themselves and in some way help their community.

“The Red Cross in Colorado has continued strong for nearly 100 years because the Red Cross is made up of everyday people coming together to make a difference — it’s neighbor helping neighbor,” said Cindi Shank, executive director of the Southwest Colorado Chapter. “We want to thank our heroes during Red Cross Month — the volunteers, class takers and financial supporters who help us assist those in need.”

March was first proclaimed as Red Cross Month 70 years ago by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Since 1943, every president, including President Obama, has designated March as Red Cross Month. The American Red Cross is synonymous with helping people.

Here in Colorado, local Red Cross chapters responded to more than 400 local emergencies, assisted more than 3,000 military families and trained more than 70,000 people in lifesaving skills last year. The Red Cross is not a government agency and relies on donations of time, money and blood to do its work. An average of 91 cents of every dollar given to the Red Cross is invested in helping people in need.

For more information, please visit redcross.org.