Even as people are worried about the economy, the citizens of the Midland Empire gave $25,328 during the first 12 days for the National Red Cross Campaign for Disaster Relief. Most of the funds, about $18,000, were received from a fundraising envelope placed in the Sept. 20 issue of the News-Press.

“The Midland Empire has always responded generously to support their neighbors during their time of need and disaster,” said Kevin Kirby, executive director of the Midland Empire Chapter, in a press release. “People remember the millions of dollars that were donated from around the country to our area during the Flood of ’93.”

The American Red Cross launched the Campaign for Disaster Relief to raise an initial $100 million to fill its depleted Disaster Relief Fund. The nationwide campaign will help victims of recent disasters meet their immediate needs for food, shelter, counseling and other critical services. The American Red Cross has asked the Midland Empire Chapter to raise $113,000 in Northwest Missouri and Northeast Kansas communities. The Midland Empire Chapter will continue to raise funds.

The American Red Cross has responded to more than 60 large-scale disasters this year, including a record-breaking tornado season, widespread flooding across the central U.S., extensive wildfires and a record-breaking hurricane season. The Disaster Relief Fund was depleted, but the Red Cross borrowed funds to continue to provide help and care.

All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money.

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. Call (800) RED-CROSS or (800) 257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P. O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013. Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting www.redcross.org.