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Red Cross fundraising update
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Posted on Sep 14 2005
The CNMI Chapter of the American Red Cross wants to inform the general public regarding fundraising efforts for Hurricane Katrina victims and our Chapter’s recent response to Typhoon Nabi.
In the immediate aftermath of Typhoon Nabi, the CNMI Chapter of the American Red Cross undertook disaster relief efforts to assist those whose homes and belongings had been destroyed or damaged. Over the course of seven days, the Chapter provided direct assistance totaling in excess of $40,000 to over 225 families in Saipan and Tinian. We also provided 909 meals to those displaced by the storm and living in shelters. This was accomplished with the assistance of approximately 40 volunteers and three paid staff, all of whom worked tirelessly to assist those affected by the typhoon.
In addition, we have been preparing for our annual fundraiser, Club 200, which will be held on Sept. 17. Club 200 provides the majority of the operating funds for the Chapter, and allows us not only to respond to natural disasters, but also provide health and safety services to the community. Preparations for this event require quite a bit of work, also by a large group of volunteers.
In the midst of responding to the typhoon and preparing for Club 200, the board of directors (all volunteers) was meeting to plan fundraising goals and strategies for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. A number of individuals have already contacted the Chapter to make donations to Katrina victims, and we will be raising additional funds in the near future, in the hopes of making a significant donation from the CNMI to those in the mainland, many of whose donated dollars to the American Red Cross in the past have benefited us in the islands. Additionally, we will be asking for volunteers from the community to travel to the mainland and assist with relief efforts in various parts of the country.
We encourage all individuals who are able to donate time or financial assistance to the Chapter to contact our office at 234-3459, and we thank the community for its continuing support of the Red Cross’ mission to prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies.
John Hirsh
Executive Director
American Red Cross-NMI Chapter
