In Case You Missed It

Then and now: Photos from the archives of Red Cross volunteer Jim Heavey, who is now the Greenwich Police Chief.

Over the last seven days, the Greater New York Red Cross provided emergency assistance to 108 adults and 36 children for 36 local disaster responses. Here are some highlights from last week and a preview of upcoming activities. (See below.) 

Last Week in Review

• The third season of our podcast launched Friday with an episode about the 2003 Northeast Blackout. We were joined by Red Cross members and partners who helped to keep New Yorkers safe and informed during this historic emergency 18 years ago. 

• Longtime volunteer, board member, blood donor and Greenwich Police Chief Jim Heavey reflected on his 45+ years of service with the Red Cross in a blog post from this past week. 

• We shined a spotlight on Sarai Korpacz, a Red Cross Volunteer who jumped at the opportunity to give her time and services in support of the 40th National Veterans’ Wheelchair Games. 

• On August 10, we live-streamed a presentation on how to prepare, respond and recover from local emergencies and large-scale disasters in your community co-hosted by NY State Assemblyman Mike Lawler. 

• A Queens explosion and fire forced 44 people from their homes last Tuesday. ABC7 reports the Red Cross was there to provide temporary lodging, financial assistance, emotional support and other services to those impacted. 

• The Patch highlighted Red Cross blood drive efforts in the Greenwich area happening over the next few weeks. 

• Earlier this week, The Examiner profiled a Red Cross disaster preparedness event with Assemblyman Chris Budrick which was held on August 3, the one-year anniversary of Tropical Storm Isais. 

Upcoming Events and Activities

• August 17: We’re hosting an online informational session for potential volunteers. Join us to learn about our many volunteer opportunities and how you can apply today! 

• We’re looking for volunteers to help staff disaster shelters, with a specific need for with health professionals. Apply today at  redcross.org/volunteertoday! For more information, please contact recruimtent@redcross.org.

• The American Red Cross has issued a call for blood. We are experiencing nationwide blood shortages and are in dire need of donors to help us save lives. Find a blood drive near you today.