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Here at home, however, the Chapter is facing serious financial hardshipfrom increased expenses and declining contributions, and can use some badly-needed assistance as it struggles to meet the needs of the local community,which have never been greater in its 102-year history.
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"The last thing we want to impact is our service here at home becausewe've always been there for our community," said Chief Executive Officer, JimLaverty. "But the fact is, with both the number of local disasters and thecost to provide our services at an all-time high, all of our 2008 budgeteddisaster monies have been spent."
Contrary to what many believe, Red Cross chapters are not government-funded and instead rely on the financial contributions of their communitiesfor support. The Southeastern Michigan Chapter has experienced diminishingcontribution levels for the past few years, and has responded by makingpainful but necessary reductions in staffing, programming, and compensationlevels. Currently, the Chapter is dipping into its reserve account to maintainservice levels in the short-term and invest in long-term, revenue-generatinginitiatives. But with donations down and expenses up, the Red Cross is askingfor help now, and wants people to know that all donations given specificallyfor local Southeastern Michigan Chapter efforts are used in daily operationsto help the local community.
"Whatever the disaster, the Red Cross will always be there to help. Thatis and will always be our focus," added Laverty.
To make a donation, visit www.semredcross.org or call 1-877-788-0014.
About the American Red Cross - Southeastern Michigan Chapter
The Southeastern Michigan Chapter of the American Red Cross is theorganization that turns caring into action by providing disaster relief andhelping people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. We arevolunteer-driven and reflect the diversity of Wayne, Oakland and Macombcounties. As part of the international Red Cross network, we are dedicated toprotecting human life and dignity worldwide.
SOURCE American Red Cross - Southeastern Michigan Chapter
