On Thursday, President Barack Obama proclaimed “March as American Red Cross Month,” upholding a tradition that began nearly 70 years ago.
During the very first March proclaimed as Red Cross Month America was embattled in war abroad and fighting its way out of economic turmoil at home. It was 1943 and many were struggling. Still, with mounting adversity, America came together in support of the humanitarian mission of the Red Cross. This support continues today.
“After more than 130 years of providing humanitarian relief at home and abroad, the American Red Cross remains a reflection of the compassion and generosity central to our national identity,” states the 2012 Presidential Proclamation. “As we celebrate American Red Cross Month, let us resolve to preserve and renew that humanitarian impulse to save, to serve, and to build, and carry it forward in the year to come.”
Locally, Mayor Annise Parker and public officials from Houston Fire and Police Departments joined for a Houston version of the kick-off at the Greater Houston Area Red Cross Headquarters. This relationship will be underscored again next Thursday, March 8th when the City hosts The Red Cross Preparedness on the Square event in front of the City Hall Reflecting Pool. This annual event allows the public to learn more about general preparedness as well as all facets of work performed by the American Red Cross.
Throughout the month ahead will provide occasional updates and profiles on some of these various services. In the interim though, to learn more about your own local Red Cross we encourage you to watch the short video below.
American Red Cross Greater Houston Area Chapter Video from Danny Resendez on Vimeo.