American Red Cross Launches New Holiday Giving Campaign
Featuring ‘Gifts that Save the Day’ Online Catalog

Newton, NJ, November 19, 2009 — This holiday season, when economic conditions are tough and people really want their gifts to matter, the Sussex County Chapter of the American Red Cross is kicking off a new holiday campaign that offers a way to give a gift that has real impact. 

Gifts that Save the Day is a new holiday giving campaign that inspires people to make a gift that can save the day for those in need. Through the online catalog (which can be found through a link at www.sussexredcross.org or directly at www.redcross.org/gifts), people can make a donation that could provide food and shelter for a disaster victim for a day; a military comfort kit with a robe, phone card and other supplies for a wounded warrior; or a month of basic necessities for a family in another country who lost everything in a disaster.

“We know that these are difficult times for many families and businesses, but the Red Cross has seen that when Americans are in need, America always responds,” said Pat Day, Executive Director. “The holiday season is traditionally a time of hope and generosity, and this campaign gives us all a chance to make a difference in someone’s life.  These have been turbulent economic times for the Red Cross and other non-profits, with more and more people seeking help,” Day continued. “The Red Cross is working very hard to raise money now so the organization can be there tomorrow with help and hope when people need it most—when the next disaster strikes, when a neighbor’s house burns down or when someone needs life-saving blood.”

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.sussexredcross.org or call our office at 973-579-1600.