RED CROSS

The American Red Cross has three primary objectives: to improve the quality of human life; to enhance self-reliance and concern for others; and to help people avoid, prepare for and cope with emergencies.

The agency offers services ranging from blood drives to water safety for infants.

The Red Cross is often the first agency called upon in an emergency. The agency last year provided assistance to 87 families who were victims of house fires.

In addition to service, the Red Cross provides training in first aid, water safety, and emergency preparedness.

The Red Cross is the only non-profit agency mandated by Congress to provide emergency and disaster aid and to provide aid to military families. While the government requires this agency to provide the services, it does not provide state or federal funds.

For the coming year the Red Cross plans to expand its safety-health training to offer more job-site classes.

The local chapter manager is Mary Burton. For more information call 335-9471.