LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Response to water crisis was quick

A Red Cross volunteer directs traffic at the free water distribution site at Woodward High School.

When a water emergency was declared in Toledo on Aug. 2, one of the first calls local officials made was to the American Red Cross. Red Cross disaster responders were on the job within hours to ensure that safe drinking water would be available to the hundreds of thousands of residents who were affected.

Red Cross volunteers worked at distribution centers throughout the area, handing out cases of water and helping the National Guard, City of Toledo officials, and other partners in coordinating the distribution efforts.

The Red Cross also developed a plan, in collaboration with our partner agencies, to ensure that our most vulnerable citizens — including homebound residents, seniors, and those with medical needs — would receive help. In just three days, more than 350 Red Cross disaster responders distributed more than 90,000 bottles of water and visited more than 2,500 homes to deliver water to homebound residents.

Through their hard work and effort, the Red Cross met the needs of those affected by this crisis, until our water was once again declared safe.

A vital part of the Red Cross’ mission is helping our community prepare before disasters happen. A crisis such as our water emergency reminds us that we have to take steps to be ready before a disaster strikes.

By training volunteer disaster responders, providing information on family preparedness, and teaching lifesaving skills, the Red Cross is making sure northwest Ohio is a safer place to live.

I thank all of our volunteers, staff, and partner agencies. I encourage anyone who wants to be part of the Red Cross to call us at 419-329-2900, to find out about the many ways a person can make a difference as a Red Cross volunteer.

RACHEL HEPNER-ZAWODNY

Chairman Board of Directors American Red Cross of Northwest Ohio West Central Avenue