MOBILE, Ala., April 11, 2011 — Several fire departments in Baldwin County have volunteered to raise money for the American Red Cross Alabama Gulf Coast Chapter.  The fire departments will be collecting donations from the public at several intersections in Baldwin County on Saturday, April 16th from 10:00am to 2:00pm.

Last November, the Baldwin County Commission decided to entirely cut the Red Cross from its budget. This budget cut will greatly impact the Red Cross’ ability to plan and prepare for disasters in Baldwin County.  The funds from Baldwin County helped provide the resources that enabled the Red Cross to train volunteers to be prepared, provide disaster education for citizens, and respond to disasters whether single family fires, floods, hurricanes, or other disasters.

The Red Cross has always been there to provide assistance to the citizens of Baldwin County without reimbursement for direct services.  However, the Red Cross must have resources in advance of disasters in order to plan and prepare for them. 

All American Red Cross disaster service is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people.  The Alabama Gulf Coast Chapter is a United Way Partner Agency.  Your donations to the United Way and the Red Cross directly are now more important than ever.  Please consider a gift to the American Red Cross Alabama Gulf Coast Chapter to ensure that it can continue to fulfill its mission of helping people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies.

Mail your donation to:
American Red Cross Alabama Gulf Coast Chapter
P.O. Box 1764
Mobile, AL 36633

Credit cards accepted by calling (251) 544-6141 or online at www.redcrossalcoast.org.

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