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January 4, 2010

Red Cross in dire need after holidays

By Tiffany Green The Cullman Times

CULLMAN — During the Christmas season, many charities see a boost in donations, but that short spurt in giving does not make up for the rest of the year.

“We are in need,” said Mike Bates, director of the Cullman County Chapter of the American Red Cross. “We are in such trouble financially that we can’t catch up.”

The United Way agency helps in funding, but since their funding has been cut, so has the Red Cross.

“The funding we receive from United Way has been greatly reduced,” Bates said. “About half of all our funding comes from donations, and we survive off the generous donations of people.”

The Red Cross helps in fires, natural disasters, floods and any other problems that may need their assistance.

In his two months on the job, Bates has responded to eight fires and one flood.

“These people lose everything,” he said. “People just don’t realize how much people lose. They lose clothes, pictures, food and their home.”

Bates took over the financially struggling office two months ago and quickly saw the need for money.

When the Red Cross is called to a fire where the family has lost everything, they are provided lodging for three nights with food, a clothing allowance, and referrals to agencies that can provide help.

“Demand for our services is high and our funding is low,” Bates said.

To raise money, the Red Cross has yearly fundraisers.

“We have been sending out end-of-the-year mailouts to raise money,” Bates said.

In March, Red Cross Month, there will be a fundraiser where people can become Red Cross Heroes.

Bates said most of the money collected locally, stays in Cullman and Winston Counties.

“The vast majority, over 90 cents of every dollar, stays in Cullman, not many charities can say that,” Bates said.

The Red Cross not only helps Cullman County residents, but has recently taken over Winston County also.

Although funding is down, Bates said the City of Cullman, the Cullman County Commission and the town of Good Hope continue to contribute, but more is needed.

He is making his rounds to every town in Cullman and Winston Counties to ask for help. He hopes everyone will respond and put the Red Cross in the budget.

“Any donation helps,” he said. “We take contributions from $1 to $100,000 and more.”

The Red Cross also provides CPR and first aid training. Classes will begin soon.

 For more information on how to donate and get involved, the local Red Cross can be reached at 734-0921 or visit the office at 424 Third Avenue Southeast.



* Tiffany Green can be reached by e-mail at tgreen@cullmantimes.com or by telephone at 734-2131, ext. 220.

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