‘Hats Off’ Saturday for Donations to Red Cross

Volunteers, including off-duty firefighters and police officers, will be collecting donations Saturday for the American Red Cross.

The first-responders, along with members of the Lions and Leo clubs and other volunteers, will take their hats off for donations at the Hilo Walmart and KTA Puainako stores.

A similar “Hats Off for Red Cross Month” will be held later this year in West Hawaii.

Last year, the Red Cross on the Big Island responded to 23 disasters, helping 69 family members get back on their feet and start rebuilding their lives after tragedy struck.

In response to Tropical Storm Flossie, the Red Cross opened nine shelters across Hawaii County to provide a safe haven for those affected by the heavy rains and tropical force winds.

In addition, they taught 163 volunteers free disaster training and reached 1,620 individuals in the community with disaster preparedness information.  They also taught critical skills like first aid, CPR, and aquatics to 3,214 individuals in Hawaii County as part of their mission of saving lives.

“Our Big Island Red Cross volunteers respond to everyday disasters like house fires and floods, providing emergency assistance and emotional support to those affected,” said Coralie Matayoshi, Hawaii Red Cross Chief Executive Officer.

“Whether it’s a place to stay, cleanup kit, or a shoulder to lean on, the Red Cross is always there,” Matayoshi said. “Because we are not a government agency, we rely on the generosity, support and aloha from the people on the Big Island to provide these critical services to the community.”

Donations may also be given through redcross.org/hawaii, which can also provide information on volunteering.

For credit card donations call 808-739-8133. Checks can be sent to the American Red Cross, Hawaii State Chapter, 55 Ululani St., Honolulu, HI  96766.