On July 1, 2010, the Manitowoc/Calumet Chapter and the Sheboygan County Chapter will unify resources and share responsibilities as they attract and train volunteers, donors and partners to help us better serve each and every community.

This new structure allows quicker access to resources, particularly in times of disasters. The combined ability to respond now includes 258 trained volunteers. Collectively, disaster volunteers have responded to 21 local disasters (mostly residential fires) in the last year and several have been deployed nationally to support communities around the country. In addition, last year the Chapters trained 9,000 community members in disaster preparedness.

The 2032 Erie Avenue, Sheboygan location will be the administrative office and training facility, while the 205 N. 8th Street in Manitowoc office will serve as a service delivery and training location as well.

The Sheboygan Chapter was chartered in 1916 and the Manitowoc/Calumet Chapter in 1917. Both have a long history of meeting the needs of local families and communities. The Red Cross will continue to meet the needs of military families, disaster victims, hospital patients relying on blood donors, and those who turn to the Red Cross for lifesaving training. Please contact Sherry Rezba at (920) 684-6601 if you have any questions or would like more information. For additional details go to the Northeast WI Region website at www.newredcross.org website or click here to view the entire news release.

The HEROES Campaign is a Regional grassroots initiative to raise money for the lifesaving programs and services of the Red Cross. In Manitowoc and Calumet Counties, individuals, busnesses, organizations, social groups, and schools are encouraged to participate in "Fundraise Your Way" as part of the HEROES Campaign. Fundraise Your Way encourages teams and team leaders to be creative and competative, challenging others to raise money for the Red Cross. Bake sales, car washes, penny wars, brat frys, rummage sales, concerts, e-mail campaigns, jean days, and more are all ways your team could raise money. Be creative and form a team today. Click here to download a Fundraise Your Way flier and application.

This year's HEROES Campaign Sponsors include Bank First National and Orion Energy Systems both at the $750 level and Cawley Company at the $500 level.

Now you can get the facts you need...before, during, and after a disaster or emergency situation...from an organization you trust, the American Red Cross. Grounded in research, science, best practices, and expert opinion, Be Red Cross Ready Preparedness Fast Facts offer you information that's relevant, timely and accurate. Click the links below to download Fast Facts for a variety of can strike here in Manitowoc or Calumet County.


Click here to view an audio course on how to Get a Kit, Make a Plan, and Be Informed!

Every time disasters strike there is a potential to be separated or lose communications with family and friends. The Safe and Well Website is an internet-based tool that allows those affected by a disaster to let their loved ones know of their well-being. People within a disaster-affected area are able to select and post standard messages. Concerned family members who know the person's current phone number or a complete home address can then search for the posted messages, providing peace of mind. Bookmark the Safe & Well Website in case you find yourself out of touch with someone you love during a disaster. Simply click on the banner below to visit the Safe & Well Website and add it to your favorites.