WHAT IF…? Campaign Is Launched at Press Conference

Red Cross is in Urgent Need!

The American Red Cross of Delmarva Peninsula announced on March 25 the launch of the “What If…?” Campaign to raise $500,000 before June 30, 2008. This campaign is necessary for our local Red Cross to continue its operations in Delaware and in the six counties on the Eastern Shore of Maryland it serves.

The American Red Cross of the Delmarva Peninsula has been an important part of life on the Delmarva Peninsula for several generations – over 100 years, in fact. It touches hundreds of lives on the Peninsula each year when house fires, floods and military family emergencies occur. It also provides important life saving training that protects our community workplaces, homes, youth teams and playgrounds. It is not a government agency and receives no federal funding or funding from its National organization.  And while it receives grant support from some organizations, Red Cross locally relies significantly on individual contributions to achieve its mission.

Our community raised millions of dollars to support of the victims of national disasters such as the terrorist attacks on New York City, Hurricane Katrina, California wildfires and other disasters. However, this generosity has caused a significant reduction in the contributions directed to our local Delmarva chapter. In addition, Red Cross has experienced cutbacks by several of the traditional sources of support, which are all suffering in these difficult economic times.  The combination of these conditions means that our Red Cross must broaden its base of support in the community. Funds are needed now to ensure the organization’s continued viability into 2009 and beyond. Simply put, we don’t want to imagine “what if” there was no Red Cross in our community, but it needs your financial support today to survive. 

If you, your neighbors or your family, have been touched by the Red Cross in some way, or if you believe that Red Cross’s good work deserves your support, please consider making a donation now.  If you have already done so, THANK YOU; however we ask that you please consider a second donation.  We don’t want to imagine “what if…” in our community.    

PLEASE DONATE ONLINE
or by check to
American Red Cross of the Delmarva Peninsula; P.O. Box 767; Wilmington, DE  19899.