Red Cross disaster fund needs donations

To the editor:

Through donations of time and money from the good will of the American people, your American Red Cross has helped hundreds of thousands of people this past year during the biggest relief operations in Red Cross history. Responding to the tornadoes and the worst Midwest flooding in 15 years were part of those operations. Disaster assistance is free, and the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund is there to help make this possible right here in Southeast Missouri.

Support to Missouri was sought from the fund this year for response efforts as 525 people were sheltered, more than 4,000 meals served and Red Cross volunteers from around the country came to assist during flooding and storms. The cost of responding to disasters nationwide has outpaced donations to the Red Cross. It is imperative that we do our part now to replenish a depleted Disaster Relief Fund as the next disaster is unpredictable and inevitable.

Your American Red Cross has been there at every disaster. Please continue to support the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. It ensures that food, shelter and other basic necessities are available immediately to victims of disasters. Your gifts allow your Red Cross to help families in Southeast Missouri and across the nation whenever and wherever disasters strike. Thank you.

CHERYL KLUEPPEL, Executive Director, Southeast Missouri Chapter, American Red Cross, Cape Girardeau