The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross has been serving the Greater New Haven and Shoreline communities since 1906 with emergency relief services, disaster preparedness, and health and safety education.   Funded by public donations, ninety-one cents of every dollar is used to serve clients in emergency situations nationally.  Monetary donations can be sent to 703 Whitney Avenue, New Haven, CT 06511 or visit the website at www.arcsct.org. For additional information, please contact Glenn Foster at (203) 787-6721 ext. 111 or (203) 988-4754.

Community Health Network Of Connecticut, Inc. Collaborates With New Haven Fire Department And American Red Cross To Promote Fire Prevention And Community Education
March 25, 2008 Details

Red Cross Assists Hamden Family after Fire
NEW HAVEN, CT – [FEBRUARY 24, 2008] The South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross responded today to an early morning fire located 237 Goodrich Street in Hamden.  The Chapter was called in by the Hamden Fire Department to assist four adults left homeless by the multi-family blaze. Relief services provided by the Red Cross included temporary lodging assistance with food, clothing and other referral services.

Red Cross Responds to House Fire in New Haven
Feb. 14, 2008 - Volunteer disaster relief personnel from the South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross responded early this evening to a house fire located at 40 Willis Street in New Haven.  At the request of the New Haven Fire Department the Chapter assisted five adults with temporary lodging, food and other referral services. “This is the fifth fire the Chapter has responded to in as many days” said Sarah Egan, Director of Preparedness and Response for the Red Cross.  “Thankfully we’ve been able to assist everyone with their immediate needs and there haven’t been any serious injuries.  We strongly encourage everyone to be sure that they have adequate smoke detectors throughout their homes and that they are in good working order.”

Red Cross Urges Public to Be Prepared for Possible Flooding
New Haven, CT., [February 13, 2008] – The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Warning for New Haven County in Southern Connecticut until 6:45 PM EST today. The South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross of is urging residents in flood prone or low-laying areas to prepare now for potential flooding. Find out if you are in a flood zone, have a plan if you need to evacuate. Listen to local radio and TV stations for information and advice. If told to evacuate, do so as soon as possible.

A Flood Warning means that flooding is imminent or has been reported. Stream rises will be slow and flash flooding is not expected. However…residents in flood prone areas should take necessary precautions immediately. Most flood deaths occur in automobiles. Never drive your vehicle into areas where the water covers the roadway.  Flood waters are usually deeper than they appear, and could be too great to allow a vehicle to cross safely.  Just one foot of water in a roadway is powerful enough to cause a vehicle to loose control. – source: The Nation Weather Service 

Know What to Expect
Know your area’s flood risk – if unsure, call your local Red Cross Chapter, emergency management office, or planning and zoning department. If it has been raining hard for several hours, be alert to the possibility of a flood. Listen to local radio or TV stations for flood information.

Red Cross Assists another New Haven Family after Fire Damages Home
Feb. 11, 2008 - Last night, the South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to another family in need.  This time due to a fire that swept through their residence located at 25 Norton Street.  Called in by the New Haven Fire Department, the Red Cross dispatched emergency services volunteers to assist the one adult and two children left homeless by the blaze.

“This fire was one of three that had occurred in New Haven over this past weekend, bringing the total number of people requesting Red Cross assistance up to fifteen.  Fortunately, thanks to monetary donations our South Central Chapter receives from local donors, we’re able to provide disaster relief for these many people in our own community” said Charles Frey, Chapter CEO. The Red Cross provided temporary lodging and other referral services to the family.

Red Cross Responds to Back-To-Back Fires in New Haven
A dozen people left homeless
Feb 9, 2008 - The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross responded today to two residential house fires within several hours of each other.  The Chapter was called by the New Haven Fire Department to assist one adult and six children forced from their home located at 183 Franklin Street.  Volunteers accessed the families’ immediate needs after the blaze and provided them with assistance.  Two hours later the Chapter was called for a second time to assist two families left homeless after a fire ripped through the first floor of a three family house located at 882-884 Elm Street.  Once again, volunteer responders accessed the losses and provided assistance for four adults and two children including; food, lodging, clothing and other referral services.

Local Red Cross Volunteer Heads to Tennessee
John Glendon Deployed in Wake of Destructive Tornadoes
NEW HAVEN, CONN., February 8, 2008 – John Glendon of Cheshire left today to join fellow American Red Cross volunteers in Gallatin, TN, one of several southeastern states ravaged by tornados on February 5. Glendon, an IT Network Technician for the New Haven Free Public Library, is being deployed as a Client Casework Supervisor and will oversee Red Cross Client Services workers in the relief operation.  Client Services workers help to assess and meet the immediate needs of people affected by disaster.  Workers in this area are positioned at Red Cross emergency shelters and also travel routes in disaster-affected areas, meeting clients at their homes or at other locations where they may require service. 

In addition to Tennessee, the Red Cross has been working in Arkansas, Alabama, Mississippi and Kentucky since severe weather and tornadoes struck the southeast on last week.  The Red Cross has been providing shelter and comfort to those forced from their homes.  Through February 7, the Red Cross had opened 14 shelters, with nearly 500 overnight stays.  The Red Cross will be serving meals, providing clean up kits and working with individuals and families to provide additional assistance based on damage to their homes, and will provide counseling to help residents and emergency workers manage the stress and fear that accompanies disasters.  The Red Cross has served over 14,000 meals and snacks and now has more than 580 Red Cross workers supporting the relief effort across the five affected states. 

Chapter CEO Charles Frey said that Glendon represents the spirit of Red Cross volunteerism.  “John has been a volunteer with our Chapter since 2005 and he exemplifies how dedicated volunteers will set aside their daily routines to help neighbors in need. When peoples lives are turned upside down by disaster, John’s been a loyal responder here locally and now in a national relief operation. 

Red Cross disaster volunteers typically respond to local emergencies where families are displaced, including house fires or local flooding.  They respond without pay regardless of the time of day.  Red Cross assistance for displaced families can include temporary shelter, food, and clothing assistance, as well as mental health counseling, if needed.  This assistance is provided free of charge, made possible by donations from the American public.

Flooding comes early - Red Cross gives tips for staying safe during floods
NEW HAVEN, CT., February, 6, 2008 – With unseasonably warm weather and heavy rains, there are currently flood watches and warnings for parts of the Northeast. Some areas are already experiencing minor flooding, with people being evacuated from their homes. The American Red Cross of South Central Connecticut encourages the public to stay informed about flooding in their area, and to take precautions before flooding occurs.

How to prepare for flooding:
MAKE A PLAN so you know where to go if you need to evacuate. Plan ahead for the possibility of becoming separated from your loved ones by choosing an out-of-town contact that each person can contact should a disaster occur. Plan on using the Red Cross Safe and Well web site, accessible through www.redcross.org.
STAY INFORMED. Know what to do if flooding occurs
Be ready with an EMERGENCY SUPPLIES KIT, which includes:
- First aid kit and essential medications.
- Battery-powered NOAA Weather radio, flashlight, and extra batteries.
- Canned food and can opener.
- Bottled water (at least one gallon of water per person per day to last at least 3 days).
- Family documents (wills, passports, insurance policies, deeds, etc.) in a portable, waterproof and fireproof container as part of your kit. 

When a Flood WATCH is issued - Move your furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home. Fill your car’s gas tank, in case an evacuation notice is issued.  

When a Flood WARNING is issued – Listen to local radio and TV stations for information and advice. If told to evacuate, do so as soon as possible. Be alert to signs of flash flooding and be ready to evacuate on a moment’s notice.

When a Flash Flood WARNING is issued – or if you think it has already started, evacuate immediately. You may have only seconds to escape. Act quickly! Move to higher ground. Do not drive around barricades. If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground. If you experience flooding and need help, call your local authorities immediately. 

Yale vs. Harvard Again… Only This Time it’s for Blood
New Haven, CT (January 30, 2008). The Yale Red Cross Club is holding its 4^th annual Yale vs. Harvard Blood Drive Challenge on February 4- 7 from 1pm – 6:30pm. The event will be held at Payne Whitney Gymnasium at 70 Tower Parkway, New Haven, CT. 

This is the 4^th year of this challenge. Yale is currently leading with a record of 2 – 1. Last year, they collected over 300 units of blood and are hoping to increase that amount this year. They accept walk-ins and appointments. They are also offering prizes such as gift certificates and coupons for donors. Also, a raffle for an iPod will be offered to donors every day when their goal is met. 

The Yale Red Cross Club helps the South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross fulfill its humanitarian mission by participating in Red Cross service projects that impact their community and the world. 

The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross has been serving the Greater New Haven and Shoreline communities since 1906 with emergency relief services, disaster preparedness, and health and safety education. Funded by public donations, ninety – one cents of every dollar is used to serve clients in emergency situations nationally. Monetary donations can be sent to 703 Whitney Avenue, New Haven, CT 06511 or visit the website at www.arcsct.org. 

Signing up for the blood drive is easy. Simply visit the website: http://www.yale.edu/redcross for information.

The American Red Cross has blood drives seven days a week.  Donors can find out where they can donate and make an appointment by calling 1-800-GIVE LIFE.  To give blood you must be at least 17 years of age or older, weigh at least 110 lbs and be in general good health. 

The American Red Cross Blood Services – Northeast Division must distribute 2,000 units of blood each day across New England just to meet the basic needs of area patients.  Only five percent of those eligible to donate blood actually do so.  Blood must be available whenever and wherever it is need for patients.  Blood is used for surgical procedures, organ transplants, trauma and chemotherapy.  For some patients, such as the victim of an automobile accident, the need for blood is sudden. For others, ongoing transfusions are needed to help sustain lifesaving medical treatment.

North Haven Family Assisted After House Fire
NORTH HAVEN, CT (January 30, 2008)  The South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross assisted a family of three last night after a fire left them homeless. The Chapter was called by the North Haven Fire Department to assist two adults and one child living at 1350 Ridge Road with temporary lodging, assistance for food and clothing.  The family was also provided with additional referral services.

Red Cross Responds to House Fire on Day Street in New Haven
NEW HAVEN, CT (JANUARY 28, 2008) - This afternoon, disaster personnel from the South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a single-family house fire located at 65 Day Street.  Called in by the New Haven Fire Department, the Red Cross was quick to respond and assess the immediate needs of the occupants of the home.  The Red Cross and was able to assist for adults and two infants left homeless by the blaze, with lodging, food, clothing and other referral services.

Red Cross Helps New Haven Family after Fire
NEW HAVEN, CT (JANUARY 16, 2008) – Emergency Services volunteers from the South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross responded this evening to a multifamily house fire located at 555 Winchester Avenue.  The Chapter was contacted by the New Haven Fire Department to assist one family (four adults and three children) left homeless by the blaze. After accessing the immediate needs of those affected by the fire, the Red Cross provided temporary shelter, food assistance and other referral services to four adults and two children.

Red Cross Assists Family Member After Fatal House Fire in Hamden
HAMDEN, CT (JANUARY 9, 2008) -The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross was contacted today by the Hamden Fire Department to assist a family member left homeless after an early morning fire located at 28 Turnor Avenue. The Red Cross assisted one adult with food, shelter, clothing and other referral services.

Red Cross Provides Relief for Hamden Families
HAMDEN, CT (JANUARY 12, 2008) The South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross responded early this morning to a multi-family fire located at 131 School Street.  The Chapter was called by the Hamden Fire Department to assist three families left homeless as a result of the blaze. After assessing the damage to the structure, eight people (six adults, two children) were provided with temporary lodging, assistance with food, clothing and other referral services.

Red Cross Helps New Haven Family after Fire
NEW HAVEN, CT (JANUARY 5, 2008) –Volunteers from the South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross assisted a family left homeless after their home was damaged by fire late Friday evening.  The multi-family home was located at 425 Dixwell Ave in New Haven. The Chapter was contacted by the New Haven Fire Department to assist seven residents (three adults, four children). After accessing the immediate needs of the affected individuals, the Red Cross provided them with temporary lodging, food assistance, clothing and other referral services.

“Just four days into the new year and we’re already responding to our first call” said Charles Frey, Executive Director.  “Unfortunately, we see an increase in the number of house fires during the winter. We encourage everyone to be sure that smoke detectors are installed in their homes, and that batteries are changed regularly.”

Sarah Egan, Director of Preparedness and Response for the South Central Chapter said, “Families need to be prepared because you can’t always predict when disaster will strike.  Keep your home as fire safe as possible, and be sure to have an escape route”  Egan also suggested that residents follow these fire safety tips:
>  Use care with portable heaters and candles.  Keep them away from flammable items; don’t leave them on or burning in unattended rooms or rooms with unsupervised children or pets
>  Don’t use your kitchen stove to heat your home
>  Don’t leave food cooking unattended on your stove
>  Don’t overload electrical outlets with too many appliances

Red Cross Assists Three Meriden Families After Fire Destroys Randolph Avenue Home
MERIDEN (DECEMBER 28, 2007) -The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to an overnight fire at 9 Randolph Avenue in Meriden. The Chapter was called by the Meriden Fire Department to assist with immediate needs of three families (ten adults and one child) with temporary lodging, food and clothing.  In addition, the Red Cross also provided case-by-case disaster recovery assistance and other referral services.

Ice and snow pose threat to power lines
American Red Cross gives tips for winter power outages 
NEW HAVEN, CT, DEC 13, 2007 – The storms that is bringing snow, sleet, and slush to the Northeast this week serve as a reminder of the dangers of harsh winter weather. In addition to frigid temperatures and hazardous driving, storms like these also increase the risk of power outages, as heavy ice and snow weigh down power lines and trees. The American Red Cross offers life saving tips to help plan for an outage and to stay safe and warm should one occur.  

“Power outages are not only frustrating – they can be hazardous, especially in these cold winter months,” says American Red Cross CEO Charles Frey. “Being prepared ahead of time will help you and your family get through a storm as safely as possible.” 

What to do in a power outage:
> Do NOT use candles during a power outage, due to the extreme risk of fire
> Build a kit, including: flashlight, batteries, portable radio, at least one gallon of water, a small supply of food
> Only use a flashlight for emergency lighting. Never use candles.
> Turn off electrical equipment you were using when the power went out.
> Avoid opening the refrigerator and freezer.
> Do NOT run a generator inside a home or garage.
> If you use a generator, connect the equipment you want to power directly to the outlets on the generator. Do not connect a generator to a home’s electrical system.
> Listen to local radio and television for updated information.

Tips on staying warm during an outage:
> Mittens provide more warmth to your hands than gloves.
> Most of your body heat is lost through your head, so wear a hat, preferably one that covers your ears.
> Dress in warm layers so you can remove items if you get too warm.
> Recognize the symptoms of hypothermia that can be a serious medical condition: confusion, dizziness, exhaustion and severe shivering. Seek medical attention immediately if you have these symptoms.
> Recognize frostbite warning signs: gray, white or yellow skin discoloration, numbness, waxy feeling skin. Seek medical attention immediately if you have these symptoms.
> If you go outside, get out of any wet clothes immediately and warm the core body temperature with a blanket or warm fluids such as hot cider or soup.

Red Cross Responds to Three Family House Fire in New Haven
NEW HAVEN, CT (DECEMBER 8, 2007) -The South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross assisted three families left homeless after their home was damaged by fire this evening.  The multi-family home was located at 5 Garden Street in New Haven. The Chapter was contacted by the New Haven Fire Department to assist six residents (four adults, two children). After accessing the tenant’s immediate needs, the Red Cross provided temporary lodging and assistance with food, clothing and other referral services.

Red Cross Assists Two Families Left Homeless after Fire
NEW HAVEN, CT (DECEMBER 5, 2007) -The South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross assisted two families left homeless after their home was damaged by fire late last night.  The multi-family home was located at 549 Orchard Street in New Haven. The Chapter was contacted by the New Haven Fire Department to assist the two families (four adults, 1 child). The Red Cross accessed the resident’s immediate needs and provided temporary lodging and assistance with food, infant formula and other referral services.

Red Cross Assists West Haven Resident Left Homeless after Fire
WEST HAVEN, CT (DECEMBER 2, 2007) -The South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to late morning apartment fire located at 116 Main Street, Unit 62 in West Haven. The Chapter was contacted by the West Haven Fire Department to assist one adult left homeless by the early afternoon blaze. The Red Cross provided temporary lodging and assistance with food and other referral services.

Red Cross Responds to Multi-Family House Fire in New Haven
 - Nine people left homeless - 
NEW HAVEN, CT (NOVEMBER 26, 2007) -The South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to an early afternoon house fire located at 25 Market Street in New Haven. The Chapter was contacted by the New Haven Fire Department to assist two families, (nine adults, no children) left homeless by the early afternoon blaze. The Red Cross provided temporary lodging and assistance with food, clothing and other referral services.

RED CROSS ASSISTS THREE PEOPLE LEFT HOMELESS AFTER HOUSE FIRE IN WALLINGFORD
WALLINGFORD, CT (NOVEMBER 24, 2007) -The South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross responded today a house fire in Wallingford located at 145 Clifton Street. The Chapter was called by the Wallingford Fire Department to assist with immediate needs of the occupants affected by the early afternoon blaze. The Red Cross assisted three individuals (all adults) with shelter and food and other referral services.

Prominent Art Dealer to Speak at Red Cross Event 
Thomas Colville will be the guest speaker at the 27^th annual American Red Cross Antiques and Collectibles event on Friday, November 30^th. Since 1972, Thomas Colville has been buying and selling American and European nineteenth and early twentieth century art.  He is regarded as one of the top dealers in the growing American field of the art market, catering to both private, individual clients and museums.   

Mr. Colville takes pride in overseeing the careful conservation of each painting, returning artwork to its original state and ensuring that the work will be preserved for and enjoyed by future generations. Considering the “whole” artwork, Mr. Colville selects an antique frame appropriate to painting’s period from his own extensive collection when the original frame cannot be used.  Mr. Colville researches the provenance and exhibition history of each work, providing his client’s with the art historical context of their works. 

Mr. Colville maintains a showroom here in New Haven as well as in Manhattan; both locations are open by appointment only.  Additionally, Thomas Colville Fine Art, LLC exhibits annually at the Winter Antiques Show and International Fine Art Fair in New York, along with the Palm Beach Jewelry, Art and Antiques Show.  He is on the board of the Private Art Dealers Association and also on the governing board of the Colby College Museum of Art. 

“We’re delighted to have Mr. Colville as our guest speaker this year,” said Carmela Nahary, Director of Financial Development for the South Central CT Chapter.  “As we build on the success of our previous sales, we’re adding new features to the program.  In addition to Mr. Coville, we’re also excited to be offering a wine tasting and pre sale opportunity for the very first time,” said Nahary. 

Doors open for the pre sale event at 5:30 PM, Friday November 30, admission is $10.  Public sale will be on Saturday, December 1, beginning at 10 AM (no admission fee).  All proceeds to benefit local Red Cross disaster relief. For more information, please contact Carmela Nahary at (203)787-6721 or cnahary@arcsct.org

Red Cross Responds to Two Alarm Fire in New Haven
NEW HAVEN, CT (NOVEMBER 14, 2007) -The South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a two alarm house fire located at 275-277 James Street. The Chapter was contacted by the New Haven Fire Department to assist one person left homeless by the early afternoon blaze. The assistance for this one adult included lodging, food and other referral services.  Today’s fire is the sixth residential house fire that the South Central CT Chapter has responded to in the past five days leaving a total of forty individuals without homes.

Red Cross Assists New Haven Family after House Fire
NEW HAVEN, CT (NOVEMBER 13, 2007) -The South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a house fire located at 447 Fountain Street. The Chapter was contacted by the New Haven Fire Department to assist one family left homeless by the early evening blaze. The Red Cross assisted four adults and two children with lodging and assistance for food.

RED CROSS ASSISTS TWELVE PEOPLE LEFT HOMELESS BY HOUSE FIRE IN NEW HAVEN
NEW HAVEN, CT (NOVEMBER 13, 2007) -The South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross responded this morning to a multi-family house fire in located at 71 Main Street in the Fair Haven section of New Haven. The Chapter was called by the New Haven Fire Department to assist two families left homeless by the early morning blaze. The Red Cross assisted eight adults and four children living at that residence with shelter, food, clothing and other referral services.

RED CROSS ASSISTS THREE FAMILIES LEFT HOMELESS AFTER MULTI-FAMILY FIRE IN MERIDEN
MERIDEN, CT (NOVEMBER 12, 2007) -The South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross responded today a multifamily house fire in Meriden located at 1076 Broad Street. The Chapter was called by the Meriden Fire Department to assist with immediate needs of thirteen occupants affected by the blaze. The Red Cross assisted three families (nine adults, four children) with shelter, food, clothing and other referral services.

RED CROSS RESPONDS TO MULTI-FAMILY HOUSE FIRE IN NEW HAVEN
NEW HAVEN, CT (NOVEMBER 10, 2007) -The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a multi-family house fire in located at 311 Greenwich Ave, New Haven. The Chapter was contacted by the New Haven Fire Department to assist one of the two families left homeless after the early morning blaze. The Red Cross assisted one adult living at that residence with shelter, food, clothing and other referral services.

Red Cross Expands Disaster Services In Southern California
(NEW HAVEN, CT), Thursday, October 25, 2007. As the Red Cross continues to expand its services in Southern California, many individuals and families are returning to their homes to review the damage. The Red Cross is offering a wide range of support focusing on continued sheltering for those who need it – mass feeding, distribution of clean up supplies, mental health support and limited emergency financial assistance in some areas. 

As of midnight last night, the Red Cross had 24 shelters opened with a population of 6,001 people. The Red Cross continues to extend offers of supplies and expertise to other shelters in the area. Here is a snapshot of other Red Cross services:

• Thousands of cots, blankets and toiletry kits have arrived

• 50 Mobile feeding vehicles have arrived with 25 more en route

• 40 trucks full of supplies have already arrived.

• Other supplies include 14,000 rakes and shovels, 3,500 work gloves, 4,000 trash bags, and 16,000 dust masks.

• A large feeding kitchen is open at Petco Field to support the shelters, mobile feeding and the feeding to the emergency workers

• The Red Cross has provided over 15,000 overnight stays in its shelters.

• The Red Cross has nearly 3,000 workers on site in Southern California, including volunteers from all 50 states.

Total number of volunteers deployed thus far from Connecticut (last count -- 10/24/07 – evening) is 18. 

NATIONAL DISASTER RELIEF FUND
The American Red Cross responds to approximately 75,000 disasters a year, including the California Wildfires, floods, house fires, storms, tornadoes, hurricanes and other disasters, providing aid to more disaster victims nationwide. This means that every eight minutes a disaster strikes and a family turns to the Red Cross for help. All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people. You can help the victims of thousands of disasters across the country each year, disasters like the wildfires in California, by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, which enables the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance to victims of disaster. The American Red Cross honors donor intent. If you wish to designate your donation to a specific disaster please do so at the time of your donation.

RED CROSS RESPONDS TO APARTMENT FIRE IN WEST HAVEN
WEST HAVEN, CT (OCTOBER 22, 2007) -The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a multi-family house fire located at 386 Meadowbrook CT, West Haven. The Chapter was called by the West Haven Fire Department to assist one family left homeless after an early evening apartment fire. The Red Cross assisted three individuals (one adult, two children) left homeless with food, shelter and other referral services.

Local Red Cross Needs Emergency Services Volunteers
NEW HAVEN, CT ( OCTOBER 18, 2007) The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross is part of the nation’s most recognized voluntary humanitarian organizations in the world. It is through the assistance and dedication of volunteers that communities are trained to prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies. Applications are currently being accepted for individuals 18 years or older to volunteer on local Disaster Action Teams.  

When an emergency strikes, such as a home fire, flood, or power outage, the Red Cross is called in to provide services including:

• Case Work and Assistance to Families

• Mass Feeding and Shelter

• Damage Assessment

• Also associate with HAM Radio Communications and Disaster Mental Health

Residents of 15 communities in the Greater New Haven area make up the Chapter’s volunteer workforce. Volunteers help the Red Cross fulfill its mission by providing emergency assistance for disaster victims. Other volunteer opportunities include: teaching health and safety courses, staffing blood drives, driving patients to medical appointments, and participating in special events which helping raise funds needed to provide vital services in the community. 

For additional information about becoming a Red Cross disaster volunteer please call (203) 787-6721 or visit www.arcsct.org.

AMERICAN RED CROSS OFFERS INTERNATIONAL SERVICES YOUTH CONFERENCE IN HAMDEN
NEW HAVEN, CT, October, 2007 - On Monday November 19th, high school students across the state of Connecticut are invited to attend a conference to broaden their views on armed conflict and the devastation it brings to so many innocent people around the world. The conference, titled The Power of Humanity, will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Quinnipiac University, School of Law, in Hamden, CT.

The youth conference is an interactive seminar for students in grades 8 through 12 focused on helping youth increase their knowledge of International Humanitarian Law, the Geneva Conventions, and the International Red Cross Movement.  The conference is aimed at giving youth a better understanding of the impact International Humanitarian Law has on behavior and its relevance to current events, as well as, teaching young people ways they can take part in international events at a local level.

Up to 150 students plus teachers interested in what humanity means to them are welcome to attend this conference.  The Deputy Head of Delegation for the International Committee of the Red Cross will be giving the keynote address.  He will talk about his experiences working with international relief and development projects around the world.  In addition, instructors from across the country will be conducting workshops exploring what bystanders can do, the devastation of war, restoring family link, protecting prisoners, child soldiers, and planning a camp.

Registrations are being accepted until November 5, 2007.  To learn more or to complete a nomination form, visit www.arcsct.org (click on Youth or International) or call 203-787-6721, ext. 112.

RED CROSS RESPONDS TO House Fire IN HAMDEN
HAMDEN, CT (OCTOBER 8, 2007) -The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a multi-family house fire in located at 112 West Side Drive, Hamden. The Chapter was called by the Hamden Fire Department to assist a family left homeless after an early afternoon fire. The Red Cross assisted four adults with food, shelter, clothing and other referral services.

RED CROSS RESPONDS TO Multi-Family Blaze IN WEST HAVEN
WEST HAVEN, CT (AUGUST 25, 2007) -The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a multi-family house fire located at 959 First Ave, West Haven. The Chapter was called by the West Haven Fire Department to assist two families left homeless after a late afternoon fire. The Red Cross assisted four individuals (all adults) with food, shelter and other referral services.

AMERICAN RED CROSS ANNOUNCES FIRST ROCK FOR THE RED CONCERT

NEW HAVEN, CT (AUGUST 24, 2007) – The South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross will have its very first Rock for the Red 07 benefit concert hosted by Toad’s Place located at 300 York Street in New Haven on Wednesday, September 12, 2007.  

Doors will open at 6pm with four local rock bands starting at 7pm. See live performances by Triadic, Seth Adam, the Blue Agaves, and Red Handed. In addition, laugh-out-loud with Vinnie Penn, comedian and former host of KC 101’s morning show who will be the emcee for the evening.  

Admission price $10 in advance ($12 at the door).  For additional information and tickets call Glenn or Christine at (203) 787-6721 or purchase tickets on-line at www.arcsct.org.  

This is a benefit concert for all ages, and proceeds will benefit the South Central Connecticut American Red Cross, serving fifteen cities and towns in the New Haven area. 

American Red Cross Honors U.S. Postal Service Workers
Emergency Response Team Saves Coworker’s Life

WALLINGFORD, CT (AUG. 23, 2007) — Seven postal workers trained in emergency medical response will be honored next week for saving a co-workers life by the South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross. 

The recognition ceremony is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Wednesday, August 29 at the Southern Connecticut Mail Processing and Distribution Center on Research Parkway in Wallingford. It comes on the heels of a U.S. Postal Service ceremony held a week after the July incident at the postal facility in which a manager collapsed after an onset of cardiac arrhythmia. Doctors said such cases can be fatal up to 98 percent of the time. Thanks to the employees’ emergency life-saving skills, which are the result of Red Cross training in Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and monitoring of the stricken victim’s condition while awaiting Emergency Services to arrive, the stricken manager returned to normal activities within weeks. 

“We’re extremely proud of these and the more than 10,000 individuals who have received lifesaving training through our Chapter’s health and safety programs. This is just a one good example of the importance of having trained family members and personnel available to respond in a life-threatening situation, especially when every second counts,” said Charles Frey, CEO of the South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross. 

During the last nine years, there have been 15 sudden cardiac arrests at postal facilities with AEDs and trained MERTs. Four lives have been saved, according to USPS Associate Area Medical Director Rick Stevens, who has primary responsibility for the medical administration of the AED program in the Postal Service’s Northeast Area, which includes all New England states and almost all of the State of New York. “It is very doubtful that any of the four would have been saved with CPR alone,” Stevens said.  

Stevens’ area established the first USPS AED program with one unit in Hartford in August, 1998. The program has grown to provide coverage in 47 facilities with 94 AEDs, and is currently staffed by 800 trained volunteers. The program currently covers over 21,000 employees at NEA facilities.  “Ours is the largest USPS program in the country,” Stevens said.

RED CROSS RESPONDS TO Multi-Family Blaze IN HAMDEN
HAMDEN, CT (JULY 31, 2007) -The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a multi-family house fire in located at 50-52 St. Mary Street, Hamden. The Chapter was called by the Hamden Fire Department to assist three families left homeless after an early afternoon fire. The Red Cross assisted nine individuals (eight adults, one minor child) with food, shelter, clothing and other referral services.

RED CROSS RESPONDS TO APARTMENT FIRE IN NEW HAVEN
NEW HAVEN, CT (JULY 29, 2007) -The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a multifamily house fire in located at 99 Edgewood Ave., New Haven. The Chapter was called by the New Haven Fire Department to assist one family left homeless after a morning apartment fire. The Red Cross assisted five individuals (two adults, three children) with shelter, food, clothing and other referral services.

RED CROSS RESPONDS TO LATE NIGHT FIRE IN NEW HAVEN
NEW HAVEN, CT (JULY 18, 2007) -The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a multifamily house fire in located at 107 Kensington Street, New Haven. The Chapter was called by the New Haven Fire Department to assist two families left homeless after the blaze. The Red Cross assisted eight individuals (two adults, six children) with shelter, food, clothing and other referral services.

RED CROSS RESPONDS TO BLAZE IN NEW HAVEN
NEW HAVEN, CT (JULY 10, 2007) -The South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to an early evening fire in a multi-family home located at 317 West Division Street, New Haven. The Chapter was called by the New Haven Fire Department to assist with immediate needs of the affected occupants. The Red Cross assisted two families (three adults, two children) with shelter, food, clothing and other referral services.

RED CROSS RESPONDS TO EARLY EVENING FIRE IN MERIDEN
MERIDEN, CT (JULY 9, 2007) -The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a multifamily house fire in located at 9 Maloney Street, Meriden. The Chapter was called by the Meriden Fire Department to assist with immediate needs of the affected occupants. The Red Cross assisted six individuals (two adults, four children) with shelter, food, clothing and other referral services.

RED CROSS RESPONDS TO EARLY MORNING FIRE IN NEW HAVEN
NEW HAVEN, CT (JULY 5, 2007) -The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a multifamily house fire in located at 43 Lanscraft Street, New Haven. The Chapter was called by the New Haven Fire Department to assist with immediate needs of the affected occupants. The Red Cross assisted twenty individuals (seven adults, thirteen children) with shelter, food, clothing and other referral services.

RED CROSS RESPONDS TO SECOND BLAZE IN TWO DAYS ON HAZEL STREET
NEW HAVEN, CT (JUNE 23, 2007) -The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a second house fire in two days located on Hazel Street, New Haven. The Chapter was called by the New Haven Fire Department to assist with immediate needs of the affected occupants of 137 Hazel Street. The Red Cross assisted two individuals with shelter, food, clothing and other referral services. On Thursday, June 21, the South Central Chapter also assisted the occupant living at 160 Hazel Street.

RED CROSS RESPONDS TO EARLY MORNING FIRE IN NEW HAVEN
NEW HAVEN, CT (JUNE 21, 2007) -The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a house fire at 160 Hazel Street, New Haven. The Chapter was called by the New Haven Fire Department to assist with immediate needs of the affected occupant. The Red Cross assisted one individual with food, clothing and other referral services.

Hurricane Season Begins June 1
Red Cross urges public to prepare for a hurricane in the Northeast 

NEW HAVEN, CT., MAY 29, 2007 – With hurricane season officially beginning June 1, weather forecasters are predicting a high chance of an above-normal hurricane season. They are projecting 17 named storms, seven to 10 hurricanes, and three to five major hurricanes in the Atlantic, according to the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).  

“In the Northeast, we tend to think that a hurricane won’t affect us,” says Glenn Foster, Manager of Communication and Marketing of the South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross. “In fact, some very strong hurricanes have swept up the coast, and people should take the threat of a hurricane seriously. The most important thing you can do is prepare in advance.” 

The American Red Cross South Central Connecticut Chapter is teaming up with Meteorologist Gil Simmons of News Channel 8 and MYTV 9 for a public hurricane awareness day on Saturday, June 2, 2007. The event is being hosted by Executive Jeep Nissan located at 900 Universal Drive in North Haven.  The event will take place between the hours of 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. On display will be Skymax mobile weather lab, a Red Cross Shelter Operations vehicle and an ERV (Emergency Response Vehicle) that recently was deployed to Louisiana following hurricane Katrina.  Also, local radio stations WPLR and KC101 will also be broadcasting live at the event. 

The South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross urges the public to attend this opportunity to learn more about hurricanes and severe weather, and to take the following steps early in the season before a hurricane approaches.

Assemble a disaster supplies kit that includes:

• First aid kit and essential medications
• Canned food and can opener
• At least three gallons of water per person
• Protective clothing, rainwear, and bedding or sleeping bags
• Battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries
• Special items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members
• Written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas and water if authorities advise you to do so. (Remember, you'll need a professional to turn them back on).

Make an evacuation plan.

• Identify ahead of time where you could go if you are told to evacuate. Choose several places – a friend's home in another town, a motel, or a shelter.
• Keep handy the telephone numbers of these places as well as a road map of your locality. You may need to take alternative or unfamiliar routes if major roads are closed or clogged.
• Take these items with you when evacuating:
  • Prescription medications and medical supplies
  • Bedding and clothing, including sleeping bags and pillows
  • Bottled water, battery-operated radio and extra batteries, first aid kit, flashlight
  • Car keys and maps
  • Important documents, including driver’s license, Social Security card, proof of residence, insurance policies, wills, deeds, birth and marriage certificates, tax records, etc.

Be informed.

• Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio or TV stations for evacuation instructions. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Heed the advice of local officials, and leave if they tell you to do so.

As always, careful planning is the key to safety during and after the storm. The Red Cross has information on preparing for all types of emergencies and disasters. For more information contact the American Red Cross of South Central Connecticut or go to redcross.org.

RED CROSS RESPONDS TO FIRE IN WEST HAVEN
WEST HAVEN, CT., (MAY 21, 2007) -The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a house fire at 423 Platt Avenue, West Haven. The Chapter was called by the West Haven Fire Department to assist with immediate needs of affected occupants. The Red Cross assisted two people with food, shelter and clothing expending a total of $350.00. For additional information, please contact Glenn Foster at (203) 787-6721 ext. 111 or (203) 988-4754.

RED CROSS RESPONDS TO LATE NIGHT FIRE IN WEST HAVEN
WEST HAVEN, CT., (MAY 17, 2007) -The South Central CT Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a house fire at 29 Dalton Street, West Haven. The Chapter was called by the West Haven Fire Department to assist with immediate needs of affected occupants. The Red Cross assisted seven people/six adults, one child with food, shelter and clothing expending a total of $900.00. For additional information, please contact Glenn Foster at (203) 787-6721 ext. 111 or (203) 988-4754.

RED CROSS RESPONDS TO LATE NIGHT FIRE IN NEW HAVEN
NEW HAVEN, CT., (APRIL 24, 2007) -The South Central Connecticut Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to a late night house fire at 306 Shelton Avenue, New Haven. The Chapter was called by the New Haven Fire Department to assist with immediate needs of affected occupants. The Red Cross assisted one family/six people with food and clothing expending a total of $725.00. For additional information, please contact Glenn Foster at (203) 787-6721 ext. 111 or (203) 988-4754.