DEAR EDITOR:

It has been a tumultuous 2020, with a global pandemic, demonstrations for social justice and a politically-divided country during a presidential election year. Despite these challenges, there is hope. Everyday heroes like medical workers, first responders and other essential employees are helping us through these trying times. In fact, there is an organization full of heroes working quietly behind the scenes, whose mission is to prevent and alleviate human suffering. They are the heroes of American Red Cross.

The Red Cross provides support to victims of disasters, both large and small. It depends on volunteers to help people after home fires, hurricanes and other emergencies; and right now it is short-handed, especially in the area of volunteer disaster responders. Planning for a natural disaster like a wildfire or a flood that may or may not occur is a challenge anytime, but especially in the COVID-19 environment. Before the end of July, there were nine named storms in the Atlantic; normally, there are only two before the month of August. Forecasters tell us to expect more and stronger storms as this hurricane season progresses. In the event of a large natural disaster with a need to open shelters, there will be a need for people to volunteer in those shelters, to help care for the needs of people who are forced to flee their homes.

The Red Cross is taking very seriously the threat posed by COVID-19, and has implemented several safeguards to comply with CDC guidelines to protect the health and safety of its volunteers and the people who need help. If you have the time and ability to volunteer for the Red Cross, visit www.redcross.org/volunteertoday. The need is great, and the reward greater.

DEBORAH GRINSTEIN

Youngstown

Local chapter board member