A time to help
Contributed by American Red Cross

On March 15, 2008, a series of powerful tornadoes ripped through S.C., leaving more than 1,000 of our friends and neighbors in its wake. The American Red Cross of Central South Carolina has worked tirelessly to provide comfort to those affected by these storms and hundreds of other victims of disaster everyday.

"When I saw the Red Cross coming through, I said 'thank God,' and I knew that everything was going to be ok," said Rodney Branch, a man helped by the Red Cross.

As recovery efforts begin, the Red Cross will work hand in hand with residents in the community helping to rebuild their lives. And even once this storm has passed, the Red Cross is poised and ready to respond to the next disaster, which generally occurs every 18 hours in the Midlands.

In addition to tornado relief, the American Red Cross of Central South has also provided aid and support to 50 individuals involved in disasters unrelated to the tornadoes. This is just a typical day in the life of the Red Cross.

The Red Cross appeals to the community that it supports day in and day out. Now is the time to help. Make a financial contribution to the American Red Cross of Central South Carolina.

You can help the victims of this and other disasters by contributing to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people. To help the victims of this and other disasters, contributions can be made to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund by calling 1-800-HELP NOW or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter at P.O. Box 2751, Columbia, SC 29202. Internet users can also make a secure online donation by visiting www.centralscredcross.org.

The American Red Cross helps people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. An average of 94 cents of every dollar the Red Cross spends is invested in humanitarian services and programs. The Red Cross is not a government agency; it relies on donations of time, money, and blood to do its work.