We see the images daily on TV and online—communities around the world stricken by disaster, families in desperate need of food, medical care, shelter and hope. Just as these sights of war, natural disasters and health emergencies have become all too common, so too are those ubiquitous Red Cross and Red Crescent vests worn by the heroes who give of themselves to deliver relief.
We saw them following terrorist attacks in Belgium, France and Turkey; we see them in the midst of war in Syria; we saw them after tragic mudslides in Peru and Colombia; we saw them streaming into communities after Hurricane Matthew ran its course last fall; and we see them locally after fires ravage people’s homes every day here in Greater NY.
Red Cross and Red Crescent (depending on the country) volunteers offer support following some of the most difficult moments imaginable in just about every corner of the globe. The exact assistance they provide may vary depending on the specific needs on the ground and on the local context, but the essence of what they do is the same: they deliver urgent relief to the most vulnerable following disasters large and small.
Greater New York volunteers proudly represent this global humanitarian network in NYC, Long Island and the Lower Hudson Valley and deliver vital services to those who need it most. Our volunteers quietly step in to provide needed support and services to help families and communities find hope and recovery.
As we celebrate World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day today May 8 (the birthday of Henry Dunant, the founder of our global Movement), we salute all volunteers who strive to alleviate suffering and save lives.
Photos:
Upper left: Aleppo; Syria, photo credit: Syrian Arab Red Crescent
Upper right: Putumayo; Colombia, Photo credit: Colombia Red Cross
Lower left: Charleston, West Virginia; Photo credit: Daniel Cima
Lower right: Les Cayes, Haiti; Photo credit: Jethro J. Sérémé
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