Drive-Thru for Disaster Event Benefits American Red Cross Southeastern Michigan Chapter Disaster Relief Efforts

Market Wire, September, 2008

The American Red Cross - Southeastern Michigan Chapter is hosting a Drive-Thru for Disaster fundraising event on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2008 from 6am-6pm at Michigan First Credit Union. All proceeds will benefit the disaster relief programs and services at the Southeastern Michigan Chapter.

The event will be held in the parking lot of the credit union, located at 27000 Evergreen in Lathrup Village. Donors can simply drive into and through the parking lot where Red Cross employees and volunteers will have buckets available to drop cash donations. Coffee provided by Starbucks will be available throughout the day and pizza will be available during the lunch drive. 93.9FM The River will provide music and giveaways from 3-5pm.

The Drive-Thru for Disaster fundraising event is supported by Michigan First Credit Union, 93.9FM The River and Starbucks Coffee.

The event provides an opportunity to raise much-needed funds for the Red Cross disaster relief fund, which provides immediate relief to victims of disasters by providing food, clothing and temporary shelter. The Southeastern Michigan Chapter has seen an increase in requests for programs and services in recent years, causing a depletion of budgeted disaster monies. During the last fiscal year, the Southeastern Michigan Chapter responded to more than 1,700 home fires in the tri-county area, costing over $1.1 million in services delivered -- an increase of 30 percent from the previous year.

Nationwide, the Red Cross has responded to a record number of disasters in 2008, including tornadoes, flooding, wildfires and hurricanes. The Southeastern Michigan Chapter has sent 18 volunteers to support relief efforts in the hurricane-devastated areas and more volunteers, staff and supplies could be sent to assist with mass care efforts.

About the American Red Cross - Southeastern Michigan Chapter

The Southeastern Michigan Chapter of the American Red Cross is the organization that turns caring into action by providing disaster relief and helping people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. We are volunteer-driven and reflect the diversity of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. As part of the international Red Cross network, we are dedicated to protecting human life and dignity worldwide. To learn more about the Red Cross and to make a financial donation, call 1-877-788-0014 or log on to www.semredcross.org .

CONTACT: Ronald Grant (313) 494-2740 (313) 350-1434 Cell Email Contact