Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "american red cross"

Red Cross fundraising on KCRA for Hurricane Sandy survivors

2012-11-02T20:20:41Z

American Red Cross volunteers with the Capital Region's Chapter are answering phones for #hurricaneSandyRelief telethon on KCRA. They've raised over $65,000 since 6am today. Call 800-513-3333 to donate until 10pm.

According to a press release, in response to Superstorm Sandy, the American Red Cross is working with BloodSource and PG&E to coordinate blood donation collections throughout the area. Tomorrow, the American Red Cross and BloodSource have partnered with PG&E's employees and customers to participate in a disaster preparedness day at BloodSource Donor Centers in Chico, Midtown Sacramento and Stockton. Community members are enco

uraged to visit BloodSource Donor Centers to learn what blood donation type is best for them and what is needed today, as well as support disaster preparedness and home safety.

To give blood, someone must be at least 17 years of age, meet weight and height requirements and be in general good health. Donors should bring their blood donor card or other form of positive ID with them.

Locations and times for blood donation collections Friday, Nov. 2:
Chico: 555 Rio Lindo Ave, Chico 95926
• 7:15 a.m. to 2 p.m. whole blood
• 7 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. platelets

Midtown Sacramento: 1608 Q St, Sacramento 95811
• 6 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. whole blood
• 6 to 11:45 a.m. platelets
• 6 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. plasma

Stockton: 6385 Pacific Ave, Stockton 95207
• 7:45 a.m. to noon whole blood
• 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. platelets

Disclosure: I am a Red Cross volunteer

Hot Active Weekend

2012-07-22T08:47:21Z

Contained to a small area, the fire was not a threat to any structures. Photos taken from top floor of The Globe Mills apartment complex.

Prior to the grassfire Sac City Fire Dept was dispatched to a six-unit apartment complex in the 500 block of 9th St. The one vacant unit was the origin of the fire and the cause is unknown.

Fire crews quickly attacked the blaze.

The area around the hole was dismantled for inspection as well as better access for controlling the fire.

A strong fan was placed to blow air out of the interior.

Only one tenant, in the apt next to the vacant unit, was home at the time of the fire.She was provided assistance from American Red Cross Capital Region Chapter for food and lodging.

Read about vehicle roll overs, Molotov cocktails into two vehicles, Stolen Washington vehicle and 13-year-old missing person turns up in South Sacramento and more.......

Helping Disaster Survivors

2012-03-03T19:24:55Z

Unfortunately, disasters are a constant on our planet. They are the 'nature of the beast';. Scenes of devastation create major feelings of shock, loss, fear, hopelessness, unfairness and anger in the people lucky to survive them.

At that moment it feels like the worse thing that can happen just did. Besides property loss they may have lost a loved one - person or pet.

Disasters impacting the largest numbers of people are usually inflicted by nature; earthquakes, tornadoes, floods, tsunamis, fire. Those caused by humans, generally smaller in scale, still trigger the same emotions.

And, yes, some disasters are due to the influence of humans on nature.

No matter, survivors' feelings remain a constant.

As a Red Cross volunteer for the Capital Region Chapter, I am part of a local group within the Red Cross referred to as Disaster Action Team (DAT). There are five teams. One week out of every five throughout the year a team is on-call. That means at any hour we may be called upon to go to a fire scene within Sacramento County.

Many calls are in the wee hours of the morning.

The Battalion Chief at the fire discovers that people who just lost their home or apartment by fire don't have anywhere to go.

Within 45 minutes of being dispatched several of us DAT members arrive while the fire crews are still there.

The look of shock, disbelief, sadness and anger are written over their faces.

Large or small destruction affects all of us the same way.

Large or small scale, the American Red Cross responds!

The American Red Cross assists through donations, If you would like to help, no matter the amount, here are ways to do that:

Text "REDCROSS" to 90999
or
click this link--- http://ow.ly/9qNCP

Disclosure: I am a Red Cross Volunteer

Heroes of the American Red Cross

2011-09-16T19:11:13Z

Did you know there is a hero in all of us?

A parole officer, two teen lifeguards, a one hundred year old senior citizen, a doctor, and a scientist were among those recognized by the American Red Cross for their life changing efforts in the capital region.

Nominated by their peers, these honorees exemplified the characteristics of a hero such as courage, selflessness, and perseverance. They were recognized at a luncheon at the Doubletree Hotel in Arden on Thursday, September 15, 2011.

Here are the award recipients and their deeds.

Good Samaritan Adult Hero – Sean Ferguson, 43, called upon his 15 years of American Red Cross training to rescue a teen boy who was struck by oncoming traffic.

Animal Rescue Hero – Patty Letawsky, co-founded the We Pay to Spay program. She is the driving force behind a local dog rescue program, and has personally saved more than 100 dogs from euthanasia.

Military Veteran Hero – Sacramento Patriot Guard Riders banded together to protect soldiers from protesters. They also regularly attend welcome home, send-offs, and funerals of soldiers totaling nearly one hundred missions annually.

Good Samaritan Youth Hero – Wayne Batchelor, 16, used his recently completed ARC lifeguard training to courageously dive into a pool to pull a young girl out of the water to safety.

Law Enforcement Heroes – Deputy Mark Limbird and Deputy Matt Silvey worked together to face down a heavily armed man in a residential neighborhood who was endangering the lives of officers and residents.

Spirit of the Red Cross Hero – Todd Reiners volunteers to help women and children stricken by homelessness in the region and helped reunite a homeless man with his family after 13 years.

Professional Rescuer Hero – Brittany Martin, 16, courageously performed CPR to save the life of a 4-year-old boy using her ARC lifeguard training.

Medical Professional Hero – Dr. Mark Drabkin, a Sacramento ophthalmologist performed many sight restoring operations and trained local doctors in developing countries including Ghana, Nicaragua, Nepal, and the Philippines.

Good Samaritan Senior Hero – Bob Fletcher, who just celebrated his 100th birthday, gave up his job as an agricultural inspector to temporarily care for three Japanese owned farms during World War II, preventing the mortgage from lapsing and protecting the families’ livelihood. Bob received his award citing his wife's support of sixty six years and received a standing ovation from the hundreds of attendees present.

Workplace Hero – Anita Turley rescued a coworker who was suffering from sudden cardiac arrest. She is now traveling the country teaching others the life saving techniques she used to save a life.

Hero of the Year – Selena Li, dedicated more than 1,000 hours of her free time since freshman year in high school to develop a potential alternative treatment for liver cancer. Because of her work, she was able to develop a potential alternative treatment that is more widely available and more efficient than existing transplant and chemotherapy treatments.

Military Hero – US Army Corporal Jarus Perez was awarded the Purple Heart for pulling an unconscious comrade to safety after their unit was attacked while he was injured by an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan. While he received the best of care in the military for his injuries, he realized that local school children do not have the same care. In order to raise awareness and funds for health care for kids, he persevered a fifty-mile run recognizing each of the fifty states that require substantial healthcare reform.

“We all have potential to be heroes,” Perez says. “There are many ways to act. Get involved locally with organizations like the Red Cross. Be prepared with first aid/CPR training and give generously with your time, energy, and resources to help others.”

So what are we waiting for? The hero is in all of us.

Be the change you want to see.

Disclosure: Kati Garner is an American Red Cross volunteer. Amabelle Ocampo is trained in First Aid/CPR and is an emergency first response volunteer in her workplace.

Lincoln Rail Car Fire Causes Thousands to Evacuate

2011-08-25T05:06:03Z

When I checked my email upon arising this morning, there was a message from Trista Jensen, American Red Cross Capital Region Communications and Marketing Director, asking me to come take pictures at the three shelters the chapter opened for residents displaced from the train car propane fire in Lincoln.

Shelters were opened last night at Lincoln Community Center at 1st & Joiner, Kilaga Springs Lodge on Sun City Blvd & Lincoln Crossings Club House on Groveland Lane.

On Tuesday night, 270 local residents took advantage of the emergency shelters.

My first stop was at the shelter on Groveland Lane. Not a lot of evacuees there. So I headed to the Community Center.

I soon find out the Center shelter is the closest to the burning railroad car full of propane. Only one mile away.People seemed to be in good spirits. Food and water was on hand and everyone visited, read books, took naps or played with their dogs.

Some medical needs that Red Cross nurses tended to included an allergic reaction, headaches and minor cuts needing bandages.

The Red Cross has also activated their Safe and Well website for people trying to locate loved ones, or for people who would like to register themselves as safe and well. The Red Cross Safe and Well website is a secure and easy-to-use online tool that helps families connect during emergencies.

The site allows people inside a disaster or emergency-affected area to list themselves as "safe and well" by customizing a message for their loved ones or selecting from pre-scripted messages.

From a computer, visit www.safeandwell.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Throughout the afternoon Lincoln residents continued to check in at the shelters.American Red Cross collaborates with other agencies and businesses to provide the best service possible to people affected by disasters. Farmers Insurance (above) and Salvation Army (below) provided grilled hot dogs, hamburgers, chips and soft drinks.Firefighters came from Grass Valley, Ophir and other towns to help.The shade provided a good place for a restful nap.When I left the shelter around 4:45pm there were approximately 600 residents that had checked into the three Red Cross shelters.

A plan is underway to drain the propane from the flaming car. Doing this could get the blaze under control in 24 to 48 hours. Thousands of residents could return home once the fire is extinguised.

Disclosure: I am an American Red Cross volunteer and I am a Verizon Wireless customer.

Japan XOXO: Dance for Japan

2011-04-27T23:53:20Z

Looking for something to do this Friday night? Put on your dancing shoes, head over to the Blue Lamp, and support a good cause! Japan XOXO is a benefit dance party, with all profits from the door going to the American Red Cross. Join local DJs Shaun Slaughter, Adam J, Sam I Jam, and Taylor Cho as they do what they love to support an amazing cause.

Feel like you could do more about Japan's dire situation? Feel helpless? Japan XOXO offers a very easy solution: COME DANCE.

Expect an evening of fun house, bouncy house, hip house, topsy turvy techno, treacherous techno, and some fun indie stuff mixed in the middle keeping the party going all damn night.

Plus, enjoy drink specials all night--$3 well drinks & $3.50 PBRs.

Feel like giving more? Do it! It's never too late (or too early) to help a good cause.

Specifics:
When: Friday, April 29, 2011, 10pm-2am
Where: Blue Lamp Lounge, 1400 Alhambra Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95816
Cost: $5 (all proceeds from cover costs go to American Red Cross)
Age: 21+

Red Cross Month in March

2011-03-09T17:39:10Z

Our local American Red Cross Capital Region Chapter booths were set up on the west steps of the Capitol Building March 9 to remind folks March is Red Cross Month. Information about disaster preparedness, health, CPR and lifesaving was all about educating legislators, staffers and the public about the great work of the Red Cross!

AMERICAN RED CROSS MONTH, 2011

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

A PROCLAMATION

For over a century, the American Red Cross has harnessed the generosity of the American people, mobilizing us to offer assistance in the wake of disaster. Whether aiding towns fighting rising floodwaters or nations struggling with starvation and disease, the American Red Cross and its international partners have served during crises across the United States and around the world. During American Red Cross Month, we celebrate our Nation's humanitarian spirit, and we recommit to providing relief and hope in times of crisis.

The American Red Cross has a long history of partnering with Presidents of the United States to confront the world's most pressing challenges. During World War I, President Woodrow Wilson called on our citizens to help the American Red Cross "respond effectively and universally to the needs of humanity under stress of war." This relationship continued in 1943, when President Franklin D. Roosevelt proclaimed March as Red Cross Month, urging the public to support the efforts of the American Red Cross to provide resources and medical care to troops, allies, and peoples around the world.

Emergency response organizations like the American Red Cross play a vital role in relief operations by deploying scores of volunteers to rebuild communities hit by disaster and by providing critical support and resources at home and abroad. When a devastating earthquake struck Haiti last year, the American people responded with an outpouring of compassion, prompting an unprecedented international response and relief effort by the American Red Cross. These efforts reflect our country's noblest ideals, and they contribute to a climate of international trust and cooperation.

Volunteers play an essential part in every American Red Cross effort, from traveling to disaster zones around the world to donating blood at local community centers. Through their service, ordinary citizens have done extraordinary things, upholding the humanitarian mission of service and relief organizations and keeping our Nation strong and resilient. Though we can never fully know the challenges we will face, American Red Cross Month reminds us that Americans will always pull together in times of need and will always look to the future with hope and determination.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America and Honorary Chairman of the American Red Cross, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 2011 as American Red Cross Month. I encourage all Americans to observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities, and by supporting the work of service and relief organizations.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-eighth day of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand eleven, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

BARACK OBAMA

Photos | Kati Garner, American Red Cross Volunteer

Volunteer to Help Someone

2011-02-28T20:31:33Z

March is Red Cross Month, and the American Red Cross is asking people to join them in helping those in need by volunteering their time, making a donation or taking a class.

“When someone provides a hot meal to a disaster victim, takes a first aid class, or helps someone in the military, they join the Red Cross,” said Dawn Lindblom, Capital Region Chapter CEO. “We want to say ‘thank you’ to all who support us. That support enables us to provide help and hope to those who need our assistance.”

For nearly 100 years, U.S. Presidents have called on people to support the American Red Cross and its humanitarian mission. President Franklin D. Roosevelt was the first to proclaim March as Red Cross Month in 1943. Since that time, President Obama and every president since have issued proclamations designating March as Red Cross Month.

The Red Cross has been helping people for 130 years, responding to disasters, assisting members of the military, teaching lifesaving skills, and serving as one of the largest blood suppliers in the United States.

Nationally, the Red Cross responds to an average of nearly 200 disasters every day. The organization provides a round-the-clock link between those in the military and their families, and supplies blood and blood products to approximately 3,000 hospitals and transfusion centers across the country.

The Capital Region Chapter responded and provided assistance in 410 local disasters last year. The chapter processed 860 emergency military calls and trained 46,000 people in CPR and first aid classes.

“We work very diligently to help those in need,” Lindblom said. “Whether out on a disaster, alongside our troops or in a first aid class, Red Cross workers touch the lives of millions of people every year.”

The Red Cross is not a government agency and relies on donations of time, money and blood to do its work.

“When people join the Red Cross by volunteering, donating blood, taking a course or making a contribution, they enable us to continue our work, both here at home, and around the world,” Lindblom said.

The Capital Region Chapter has a number of activities planned for Red Cross Month in March, including CPR Saturday training events on March 5, 12 and 19, Save a Life Saturday on March 19, and Red Cross Day at the Capitol on March 8.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. The Capital Region Chapter serves an eleven-county region including Alpine, Amador, Calaveras, El Dorado, eastern Nevada, Placer, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tuolumne and Yolo counties. For more information, visit redcrosscrc.org or follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/RedCrossCRC.

Article | Trista Jensen, Director of Communications and Marketing,
American Red Cross Capital Region Chapter

Photos | Kati Garner, American Red Cross volunteer

More than one million boxes of Girl Scout cookies delivered

2011-02-19T23:41:12Z

Rain and cold didn't dampen the spirits of volunteer workers distributing one million boxes of Girl Scout cookies today. A constant stream of vehicles from small cars to delivery vans came to Cal Expo to pickup pre-sold boxes of Girl Scout cookies waiting to to be delivered.

Helen Whitelaw, Director of Sales and manager of today's cookie distribution, says initial orders are up 11% over last year.

Whitelaw rode shotgun in a golf cart with Bob Carlson, owner of Carlson Logistics, supplier of the several dozen semi-trailers filled with the cases of cookies.

American Red Cross Capital Region Chapter served the cookie workers breakfast and then spaghetti, garlic french bread, salad, drinks and cookies for lunch. The Girl Scouts gave a monetary donation to the chapter for the food. Ten Red Cross volunteers served over 300 workers throughout the day.

The money earned from Girl Scout Cookie sales fund the Girl Scout programs that build girls full of courage, confidence and character.

For more info, check out:www.girlscoutshcc.org

To learn more about the American Red Cross, click HERE>>>

SacPress Photos \\| Kati Garner (American Red Cross volunteer)

Volunteers are 'heart and soul' of Red Cross

2011-01-31T23:13:32Z

Imagine waking up in the middle of the night to the smell of smoke and the sound of a shrieking alarm - your home is on fire! You and your family safely hurry out of the house as the fire department arrives. Standing in the street in your pajamas, you huddle with your family as the tragedy sinks in. Even if the fire was extinguished quickly, your home is probably not inhabitable. Your food, clothing and furniture are damaged by fire, smoke or water. As you begin to ponder your next steps, you are introduced to volunteers who warm you with a blanket and talk to you about food and clothing allowances, temporary lodging and emotional support.

Where did these helpers come from?

The American Red Cross is widely known for preparedness and response to large disasters like Hurricane Katrina and the Haiti earthquake. A lesser-known fact is the Red Cross also provides around-the-clock response services for smaller local disasters that impact individuals and families. A Disaster Action Team or DAT provides these response services.

The Capital Region Chapter of the American Red Cross is headquartered in Sacramento and supports 11 counties in Northern California. Capital Region Chapter Chief Executive Officer, Dawn Lindblom, said, “People are most surprised to hear about the single family house fires that we respond to on a daily basis. Here, at our chapter, we respond to something on average every 21 hours.”

In the Sacramento area, five Disaster Action Teams rotate weekly responsibility for responding to house and apartment fires, local flooding or other events that displace people. Each Sacramento-area DAT consists of 10-12 volunteers: a captain, co-captain and team members. DAT members receive training and are available on-call 24 hours a day; they often respond to events in the middle of the night.

A Red Cross Disaster Action Team is usually notified by first-responders when assistance might be needed. The DAT captain will contact the other team members and meet at the event as soon as possible. Upon arrival, the team members will find the impacted people and assess the level of need. The support options are designed to provide necessary relief for the first 72 hours after the disaster. Based on need, up to three days of lodging may be provided as well as food and clothing vouchers. DAT volunteers will arrange replacement of lost medications and give stuffed animals to young children to provide comfort. Mental health services are also offered for those suffering the anguish of the event.

Elbie Diggs, a warehouse worker in Woodland, learned about the Red Cross years ago when he was eight years old. He was staying at a motel in West Sacramento with his mother and sister when a fire broke out. Red Cross volunteers helped his family after the fire.

On January 4 of this year, Elbie was preparing dinner in his Woodland apartment for himself and his twin six-month-old daughters. He saw flames in the ceiling of his bathroom and immediately carried his girls outside. In a telephone interview Elbie said, “It was extremely terrifying. But the Red Cross was a great support. I really appreciate what they did for me. If it wasn’t for them, we would have really been stuck out in the cold.” Red Cross DAT volunteers arranged temporary lodging, food and clothing allowances for him and his girls. “The Red Cross, they’re volunteers. So they came out, and they didn’t have to do anything they did. I felt blessed. It could have been worse,” he said. A faulty ventilation fan was the cause of the fire that destroyed the building.

Clarksburg resident Kathy Hunn volunteered for the Red Cross immediately after Hurricane Katrina devastated many of the southern states of the country. She attended training classes and was deployed to Biloxi, Mississippi for three weeks. After returning home, she volunteered to serve local needs as a DAT member and team captain. Hunn said, “Everybody who gets involved with the Red Cross is there because they want to help people. Almost to a person, you’ll ask them, ‘Why are you here?’ and that’s their response. That’s a real draw for working in the Red Cross.” Hunn continues to serve as a Disaster Action Team member and has expanded her work into other Red Cross services. “I love doing what I’m doing. I love working with the people that I have a chance to work with, from the volunteers all the way up to the paid staff. We have a wonderful group of paid staff,” she said.

Phil Davis is the Director of Emergency Services at the Capital Region Chapter. Davis said, “Volunteers really are the heart and soul of the Red Cross. Nationally, 97% of all Red Cross responders are volunteers. Only 3% are paid staff members. We couldn’t accomplish the mission unless we had the committed and dedicated volunteers that we do. We can’t ever have too many volunteers.” In addition to front-line response services, volunteers often perform very technical and complex jobs, such as computer support, disaster services technology, satellite communications and mental health support.

In addition to the generous gift of time by the volunteers, the Red Cross also depends on donations for financial support. Davis said, “The Red Cross is completely funded through donations and grants. No tax dollars whatsoever come to the Red Cross for services provided. So we do count on corporate donations as well as individual donations to survive.” Davis continued, “Ninety-one cents out of every dollar that is donated ends up assisting clients.” Davis said the remaining 9% is used to cover overhead costs of the organization.

The American Red Cross also provides health and safety education and training, support services to members of the military and their families, and international services.

For anyone considering becoming a volunteer, Hunn advises, “First off, come to the volunteer orientation. That gives you an overview of what’s going on in the Red Cross. There are so many options available…you start taking classes that specialize in what you’d like to do. We’re always looking for more volunteers. There’s always something to do.”

Lindblom added, “We want to make sure that volunteers that come here feel that they’re needed and that they’ve gotten the appropriate training to be able to respond to a disaster, or provide training on how to teach a CPR or First Aid class, or serving military members in the outreach efforts that we do in the community.”

For more information about the Capital Region Chapter of the American Red Cross, call (916) 993-7070 or visit their website.

Photos, video and audio by Ron Nabity.

Public Invited to Send Holiday Cards to Soldiers

2010-12-01T21:55:18Z

For a fourth year, the American Red Cross and Pitney Bowes Inc. are teaming up to deliver holiday cards to service members, their families and veterans, many of whom will be far from home this holiday season. The Holiday Mail for Heroes program provides Americans with the opportunity to send holiday greetings and a note of thanks to our men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces.

“Sending a greeting card is a small effort that makes a big impact for our American heroes during the holiday season,” said Trisha Johnson, emergency services director at the Capital Region Chapter. “The American Red Cross serves and supports members of the military, veterans, and their families by providing emergency communications, comfort and assistance each day. The Holiday Mail for Heroes program continues the Red Cross tradition of service to the armed forces.”

The American Red Cross will be hosting a local card-signing and drop-off event on Sunday, December 5 from 1:00 to 4:00 pm at the Sacramento office, located at 1565 Exposition Boulevard. The public is invited to join in the event, signing cards to be delivered to military members near and far, or dropping off their own handmade cards.

For a full list of recommended guidelines and best practices on the Holiday Mail for Heroes program visit redcross.org/holidaymail. For questions regarding the card-signing event, please contact Trisha Johnson at 916-993-7087.

WHAT:                          Holiday Mail for Heroes
                                     Card signing and drop-off event

WHERE:                       American Red Cross
                                     1565 Exposition Boulevard, Sacramento

WHEN:                          Sunday, December 5, 2010
                                     1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. The Capital Region Chapter serves an eleven-county region including Alpine, Amador, Calaveras, El Dorado, eastern Nevada, Placer, Sacramento, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tuolumne and Yolo counties. For more information, visit http://www.redcrosscrc.org or follow us on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/RedCrossCRC.

Photo | Kati Garner, American Red Cross Volunteer

Red Cross Update | Calaveras County Shelter Closes; Tuolumne County Shelter Remains Open

2010-11-25T21:51:05Z

The shelter that has accommodated dozens of residents in the Ebbets Pass area will be closing as of 1:00 pm Thursday. A significant amount of the area's power has been restored, allowing residents to return to their Calaveras County homes in time for Thanksgiving. Many residents in Tuolumne County, however, remain without power. The American Red Cross Capital Region Chapter will continue to operate the shelter at the Word of Life Fellowship Church in Miwuk Village to accommodate residents in the area who are in need of a warm place to stay, a hot meal to eat, and a place to gather with neighbors. A local Marie Callender's restaurant is donating turkey dinners for the residents in the shelter in Miwuk Village to help them celebrate Thanksgiving.

Tuolumne County Shelter (remaining open until power is restored):
Word of Life Fellowship Church, 24630 Highway 108, Miwuk Village

Calaveras County Shelter (closed as of 1:00 pm, Thursday):
Old fire station adjacent to new fire station facility, 1028 Manuel Road, Arnold

Information courtesy American Red Cross, Capital Region Chapter

Photo | Kati Garner, American Red Cross Volunteer

American Red Cross Helps Residents Impacted by Winter Weather

2010-11-24T21:13:45Z

The American Red Cross Capital Region Chapter is helping those impacted by the recent severe winter weather affecting the sierra region. On Tuesday evening, the Red Cross partnered with Tuolumne and Calaveras counties to open two warming centers to assist residents who are still without power. The location of the two warming centers are:

Warming Center in Tuolumne County:
Fire Station, 18781 Cedar Drive, Twain Harte

Warming Center in Calaveras County:
Old fire station adjacent to new fire station facility, 1028 Manuel Road, Arnold

The Red Cross will continue to provide assistance until power is restored and there is no longer a need for emergency shelter.

The American Red Cross urges the community to follow a few simple tips to stay safe during snow emergency weather.

Staying safe in your home:
•       Create or purchase a 3-day disaster supplies kit. Kits should include water, food, first aid supplies, clothing and bedding, tools and emergency supplies, and special items for medical conditions for each member of your family. Also keep additional blankets, bottled water, and a flashlight with extra batteries available.
•       When using alternative heat from a fireplace, wood stove, or space heater, use fire safeguards and ventilate properly.
•       If you purchase a fresh Christmas tree, secure it in a sturdy stand away from heat sources and exits and water it daily. If you purchase an artificial tree, make sure it is labeled as fire-retardant.
•       Keep candles away from decorations and other combustible materials. Take special care when burning candles and never leave a lit candle unattended.

Staying safe in your car:
•       Have your car winterized and keep a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle. Your kit should include blankets, food, water, flares, chains, gloves and first aid supplies.
•       Keep your car's gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing.
•       Allow extra time when traveling. Let someone know your destination, route, and when you expect to arrive. Monitor weather conditions carefully and adhere to travel advisories.
•       If you do get stuck, stay with your car—do not try to walk to safety. Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna and keep your overhead light on when the engine is running so you can be seen. Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour.

Staying safe outside:
•       If possible, avoid being outside in the coldest part of the day or for extended periods of time in extreme cold weather.
•       Dress in multiple thin layers so you can adjust to changing conditions. Most of your body heat is lost through your head so wear a hat, preferably one that covers your ears. Avoid overdressing or overexertion that can lead to heat illness.
•       Keep dry and get out of wet clothes immediately. Warm your core body temperature with a blanket or warm fluids like hot cider or soup.

To learn more about how to stay safe during severe winter weather or to purchase a disaster supply kit, contact the American Red Cross Capital Region Chapter at 916-993-7070 or visit http://www.redcrosscrc.org.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.

Information | Press Release, American Red Cross, Capital Region Chapter

Photo | Kati Garner, American Red Cross Volunteer

2 Alarm Fire Destroys Two Mobile Homes

2010-06-21T23:21:49Z

City of Sacramento Fire Department Press Release:

A two alarm fire destroyed two mobile homes in the Acorn Village Park located at 5800 Stockton Blvd. The fire was reported at 1:07 P.M. and Sacramento Engine #10 was on scene in about 2 ½ minutes. A small propane tank had exploded and more propane tanks were threatened. A second alarm was requested.

Firefighters did a great job of preventing the fire from spreading to other homes and keeping the fire from exploding more propane tanks. Engine #6, which would have been the second due Engine Company, was browned out today. The delay did slow down firefighting efforts. Luckily there were no reported injuries.

A Sacramento Fire Investigator is on scene trying to determine the cause. Firefighters from Sacramento Metro Fire also responded as did the American Red Cross. They assisted one family with housing assistance.

SacPress Photos | Kati Garner

Girl Scout Mega Cookie Drop

2010-02-14T00:05:54Z

One of the over 600 volunteers removes two cases of Thin Mints from one of the 36 semi-trailers that were each filled with 77,000 cases.

177 boxes of assorted Girl Scout cookies fill a van that will be delivering cookies to Troop #660 Brownies. 1,000 Girl Scout Troops picked up their pre-sold cookies.

Each case holds 12 boxes, a total of 924,000 boxes filled with cookies, were distributed to over 1,500 vehicles in one day.

Helen Whitelaw, Director of Sales and manager of today's cookie distribution rides in a golf cart with Bob Carlson, owner of Carlson Logistics, supplied the 36 semi-trailers filled with the case of cookies.

Over $3 million worth of cookies were picked up.

Anne Lauzier, of Ventura, has worked for the Girl Scouts cookie baker over 25 years. She directed the many vehicles that arrived to load up with the cookies. She will be doiing the same thing in Modesta this week.

American Red Cross, Sacramento-Sierra Red Cross volunteers Kathy Quinn, Bob Maher and Donna Oien serve food and drinks to the Girl Scout volunteers. The Girl Scouts bought food and Red Cross prepared lunches using the chapter's mass feeding portable kitchen.

Two of the dozen Americorp volunteers that partnered with the Red Cross grilled hamburgers and hotdogs.

The money earned from Girl Scout Cookie sales fund the Girl Scout programs that build girls of courage, confidence and character.

For more info, check out:www.girlscoutshcc.org

SacPress Photos | Kati Garner

Kings' Garcia leads Haiti fundraising effort

2010-02-02T03:44:38Z

Sacramento Kings forward Francisco Garcia, a native of the Dominican Republic, is leading an effort by Kings players to assist his neighboring country of Haiti by donating money on behalf of everyone in attendance at the Kings versus San Antonio Spurs game on Wednesday, Feb. 3 at ARCO Arena.

“I’m deeply saddened by all the destruction in my neighboring country of Haiti, and my thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this tragedy,” Garcia said. “I’m hopeful our donation around the Spurs game will help make a positive difference in the lives of everyone in Haiti as they work toward recovery.”

Garcia is donating $1 to the American Red Cross for everyone in attendance at the game, and guard Beno Udrih is matching with a $1 contribution. In addition, Garcia’s teammates Jason Thompson, Andres Nocioni, Omri Casspi, Ime Udoka and Donte’ Greene will combine to donate an additional dollar for everyone in attendance. The Kings are averaging 13,375 fans per game this season.

In addition to the donation on behalf of fans in attendance at the Spurs game, several other Kings players are contributing to Haiti relief efforts. Jon Brockman, Tyreke Evans, Spencer Hawes, Sean May and Sergio Rodriguez combined to contribute nearly $40,000 through the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund, and Kenny Thomas is hosting an event in Dallas during All-Star weekend to raise funds for Haiti. The Kings have also teamed up with the American Red Cross to take donations at Kings games on Jan. 26 and Jan. 30, all sales from a specially-made Help Haiti Kings t-shirt are going to the American Red Cross and the team is running PSAs during its TV broadcasts in support of the NBA’s efforts through UNICEF.

For more information about this release, contact Jaime Morse Mills at 916-928-8125

For more information about Maloof Sports & Entertainment, please visit kings.com, arcoarena.com or call 916-928-0000.

Photo credit: llfotos.com/

Alexander Sigua is the Public Relations Coordinator for Maloof Sports & Entertainment

Donate to the American Red Cross Here

2010-01-21T00:43:13Z

How donations are helping relief efforts:

Latest update from the American Red Cross Disaster Newsroom:

* This is already the largest single-country personnel deployment in global Red Cross history. The number of emergency response teams in or en route to Haiti equals those that responded to the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami – an emergency that spanned 14 countries.
* It is clear that what took minutes to destroy will take many years and the collective support from governments and relief agencies across the world to help mend. The American Red Cross is working in close coordination with other responding organizations and will undoubtedly collaborate on joint, long-term recovery projects.
* Terrible times like these bring out the best in people, and we are grateful for the support being given to the American Red Cross. This generosity will help thousands of survivors cope with and recover from their losses.

HELP THE AMERICAN RED CROSS HELP HAITI RELIEF EFFORTS: DONATE HERE

Sacramento helping Haiti

2010-01-20T07:08:31Z

In response to the recent 7.0-magnitude earthquake in Haiti, the United States has reacted quickly to raise funds and send assistance. There are organizations across the country providing assistance and Sacramentans are also responding quickly to the devastated country's call for help.

On Friday, Jan. 15 Sutter Health Systems announced that it will be donating $1.25 million to Haiti relief. The majority ($1 million) of the donation will go towards Doctors Without Borders and the rest will be used to fund medical supplies and fill cargo boxes with supplies.

Another large company, has made it easy for customers to donate by setting up collection boxes at check stands throughout the company's 134 stores in the region. Shoppers can donate directly to the American Red Cross at any Raley's, Bel Air, Nob Hill or Food Source location until Feb. 13.

Since Jan. 14, the Kings have been doing their part to spread the word during games by airing two Public Service Announcements encouraging the audience to visit UNICEF's website.

One features the voice of Spencer Hawes and the other, from the NBA, features the voice of Haiti native Samuel Dalembert of the Philadelphia 76ers. They've also used their website, Twitter, and Facebook to encourage followers and friends to visit the site and learn how to help. The Sacramento Sierra American Red Cross Chapter has plans to set up donation stations at upcoming home games, with dates still being finalized.

Yesterday, KCRA's "Call 3" team and the Sacramento Sierra American Red Cross Chapter joined forces and raised $150,000 in donations with a telethon. Beginning at 4:30 a.m. volunteers gathered to take donations by phone throughout the day. One of the major donors was Jackson Rancheria Casino, who pledged $10,000 during the event.

"Devastation swept an entire country..." said Dawn Lindblom, CEO of the Sierra Sacramento Chapter. "When we see scenes like this, it's easy to be overwhelmed."

Bayside Church has partnered with two major organizations to donate both money and shoes (a necessity many Haitians are in need of right now),. The church has agreed to donate 20 percent of funds raised through their current "Radical Generosity" program to World Vision, which can be done in envelopes or cards during services.

The church held a successful shoe drive in partnership with Roseville's Sports Chalet over the weekend that brought in 2,034 pairs of donated shoes. To donate or learn more visit Bayside's website. Additional shoe donations can be brought to these locations:

-Bayside Church weekend services at the Fill the Trucks drop-off Saturdays 3:30 until 7:30 pm and Sundays 7:30 am until 1:30 pm Sundays from 7:30 am to 1:30 pm at 8211 Sierra College Boulevard Roseville, CA 95661
-Sports Chalet 10349 Fairway Drive Roseville, CA 95678

Inspired by a national effort to raise money through vegan bake sales, local vegan cooks Toni Okamoto and Amy Galvan organized their own bake sale, held at R5 Records on Saturday. They raised $686 in sales and received an additional pledge for $500, which will all be donated to the American Red Cross. The women will be selling their vegan goods again later this month (see event list below).

"I think bake sales are a great way to raise money. Many of our friends are on a tight budgets for whatever reason. We might spend three dollars to make a plate of cookies and end up selling them for $30," said Galvan, "[One woman who donated muffins] couldn't afford to buy anything or donate money directly, but she did have the ingredients in her pantry to bake for the bake sale."

Also standing by to help is the region's Urban Search and Rescue Team, California Task Force 7. The 72-person rescue team, made up of Firefighters from Sacramento's Fire Agencies and civilians, received orders to deploy on the evening of Jan. 13 from the Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance. After waiting for a flight to Haiti from Travis Air Force Base, the team returned home Monday morning after being delayed for several days due to damage to both Haiti's air and sea ports. They will remain on standby to relieve any USAR team currently in Haiti if needed. See original posting by Sacramento Fire Department's Jim Doucette here.

The magnitude of the damage in Haiti is still unknown but the need for assistance is dire and it is just the beginning of the recovery from the damage done. Below is a list of upcoming events that will raise funds for the major organizations providing relief:

Bypassing Oblivion: On Friday, Jan. 22 a five-band benefit show, hosted by Bypassing Oblivion, will be held at Vega's in Old Sacramento. 100 percent of the $5 cover will be donated. Vega's is located at 910 Front Street.

Sugar Plum Vegan Cafe: On Saturday, Jan. 23, Okamoto and Galvan will be participating in another vegan bake sale from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. All sales will be donated to Life Global, an organization that will be delivering vegan meals to Haiti. Sugar Plum is located at 2315 K Street.

Capitol Roots Dance Studio: On Saturday, Jan. 23, the studio will be hosting "Hip Hop 4 Haiti" fundraiser featuring Live Manikins, Task1ne, JGood (The Usual Suspects), Verbal Taktiks along with DJ Rated R and DJ Jetski. A Bboy/girl Battle is planned along with a graffiti station. For more information visit Yele.org or CapitolRoots.com.

Punchline Comedy Club: On Tuesday, Feb. 2, Punchline Comedy Club is holding a benefit show and will donate 100 percent of door ticket sales. Comedians Ngaio Bealum, Dennis Gaxiola, and Marcella Arguello will be performing and Keith Lowell Jensen will be hosting. More comedians will be added as the date gets closer. Punchline is located at 2100 Arden Way Suite 225 in Howe 'bout Arden shopping center. For more information visit Punchline's website.

Marilyn's: On Sunday, Feb. 7, local artists will unite for "Helping Hands for Haiti," a benefit concert featuring Ryan Hernandez, Hans Eberbach, Shadia Powell, Gado Gado and Retrograde Revolution. Marilyn's is located at 908 K Street. Visit www.soulsandsounds.com for more information.

Peppers.TV: The local media production team is planning a February fundraiser. As details are finalized, they will post information on their website: www.peppershosting.com/

If there are upcoming events that have been left out or any other businesses or organizations assisting with relief, please email casey@sacramentopress.com so they can be included.

Photo credit: American Red Cross 2010 earthquake in Haiti

KCRA and RED CROSS: HELPING HAITI SURVIVORS

2010-01-18T22:18:19Z

Anita Webb, a volunteer with the Sacramento Sierra American Red Cross, talks to a person who has called in to donate to the relief efforts for the Haiti earthquake survivors.

KCRA 3 and the American Red Cross are raising funds to help the victims in Haiti today until 7 p.m., The Call 3 volunteers will be taking your calls if you'd like to make a donation. As of 2:16pm $82,219 has been raised.

Just call 916-447-2255.You can make a difference in the lives of people who have lost everything.

If you would like to make a Red Cross donation online click here.

SacPress Photo | Kati Garner

HOLIDAY GIFTS THAT BRING HELP AND HOPE

2009-11-25T17:47:37Z

HOLIDAY GIFTS THAT BRING HELP AND HOPE

November 25, 2009 – It is the season of decorations, winter, and holiday gifts. This year, the perfect way to

honor your friends and family is by ordering gifts that save the day all year long from the very first

American Red Cross Holiday Giving Catalog. Make a difference this holiday season with gifts that bring

help and hope to those at home or help military families at home or abroad. Order holiday gifts that:

·        Prepare a family to be strong when a loved one is deployed

·        Provide Personal Comfort Kits

·        Provide a phone card to help families connect after disaster strikes

·        Send one month of emergency supplies for a family

·        Purchase a bicycle for a volunteer in remote villages

·        Provide lifesaving vaccinations for children overseas

·        Toothbrushes, soap and more to families who have lost everything.

·        Hot meals and shelter in the wake of a national or international disaster

Order your free Red Cross 2009 Holiday Giving Catalog at 1-800-RED CROSS,

or visit http://www.RedCross.org/gifts.

About the American Red Cross:
The Red Cross is a charitable organization – not a government agency – and depends

on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its humanitarian

mission. This year we responded to over 70,000 disasters nationwide, provided

500,000 nights of safe shelter, served over 18 million meals and snacks to disaster

victims, and prepared over 90,000 disaster volunteers to respond at a moment’s

notice. For more information about the American Red Cross,

please visit www.redcross.org or join our blog at www.redcrosschat.org.

SacPress Photo | Kati Garner, American Red Cross Volunteer

Red Cross responds

2009-07-22T04:55:31Z

Four volunteers from the Sacramento-Sierra Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to three families displaced from three homes due to fire this afternoon around 2pm in a North Sacramento neighborhood near Grant High School.

The fire was originally dispatched as a grass fire and, enroute, it was dispatched as a full structure assignment.

This is the view from behind the 3 homes that caught fire.The home in the middle appears to be the origin. One Sacramento Firefighter suffered a minor injury to his ankle after he had to run after a woman who ran back inside one of the homes looking for her mother. Her mother was already out of the home, but not before she suffered minor burns and smoke inhalation. She was transported to a nearby hospital and is expected to be OK.

When the Red Cross arrived, assistance in food, lodging and clothing for one family was provided for the six adults and four children displaced by the fire.

The roof and interior of the middle, two-story home were destroyed.Sacramento Fire Department arrived at the scene within 4-1/2 minutes after being dispatched. Sacramento Metropolitan Fire also responded.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.Firefighters had to evacuate the inside and the roof of the two-story home, as conditions were not safe. Firefighters were able to keep the fire from completely destroying the two next door homes, but they did have serious fire damage.One dog died in one of the adjacent homes.

Photos | Kati Garner

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and counsels victims of disasters; provides nearly half of the nation's blood supply; teaches lifesaving skills; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its humanitarian mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org or join our blog at www.redcrosschat.org.

Local Red Cross volunteers recognized

2009-07-14T02:05:01Z

Six volunteers with the Sacramento-Sierra Chapter of the American Red Cross received awards recently:

John (not pictured) and Agnes Mae Drew received the Joyce Raley Teel Humanitarian

Philanthropist Award. It is given to a donor or donors who has demonstrated exceptional

philanthropy to the Sacramento Sierra Chapter.

Jim McColm received the Linda Brandenburger Legacy Leadership Award. It celebrates

an individual who has provided significant leadership to the chapter's estate and gift planning efforts.

DST Output accepted the Frank Corti Fund Development Award by Board Member Bill Kohrummel

who is the Director of Operations for DST Output. The Award is presented to an individual or

organization that has demonstrated exceptional leadership in coordination, motivation

and successfully completing fund-raising efforts for the chapter

Diane Thomas accepted the Linda Brandenburger Legacy Leadership Award which celebrates

an individual who has provided significant leadership to the chapter's estate and gift

planning efforts.

Sandy Stultz received the Clara Barton Award. It honors an individual who has served in leadership

positions over a number of years enabling the Red Cross to contribute valuable services to the

community through personal expertise, leadership, cooperation and constructive guidance.

John McGinness, Sacramento County Sheriff and Mr. and Mrs. Ray Turner present the Henri Durant Award to Steve Turner (second from

right). The Henri Dunant Award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated exceptional performance and extensive personal commitment

to a specific service or project. The individual must show leadership in identifying and assessing needs in the community and organizational

barriers to reaching the community.

Photos | Kati Garner, American Red Cross