The American Red Cross had a hard time during the winter holiday responding to five disasters in Imperial Valley. A total of 12 adults and 10 children were affected.

The Red Cross provided emergency assistance to victims, as well as food and clothing.

 

The American Red Cross provides emergency assistance, disaster relief and education inside the United States. In addition to domestic disaster relief, the organization offers services in five other areas: community services, communication services; the collection, processing and distribution of blood and blood products; educational programs on health and safety; and international relief and development programs.

Volunteers for the Red Cross are on call 24 hours a day and are trained in various aspects of disaster response, including casework interviews, damage assessment, shelter, feeding, health services, and crisis counselling.

 

The Red Cross is the largest supplier of blood and blood products to more than 3,000 hospitals nationally and also feeds emergency workers, handles inquires from concerned family members outside the disaster area and helps those affected by the disaster to access other available sources.

 

The Red Cross announced that its supplies of Type O negative blood are critical. Type 0 is the most common blood type, one that can be given to people whatever their blood type, and is used extensively by hospitals. Trudy Darling, account executive for the Bangor office of the American Red Cross said the supply of O-negative blood is always a real concern, especially in winter months. Darling added the demand for blood never takes a holiday. Anyone who is at least 17, weighs at least 110 pounds and is in good health is considered fit for donating blood.