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We have compiled our most frequently asked questions here.
You can use the links below to jump directly to each of the categories.
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Q. Does the Red Cross accept donations of food, clothing, and supplies (gifts in-kind)?
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A. The Red Cross does not accept individual donations of material items (called "in-kind" donations) because receipt of such items can actually hamper relief efforts. The financial and personnel cost of receiving, sorting, transporting goods and ensuring the quality and cleanliness of items donated by individual households is very high. It does not allow for individuals and families to receive what they uniquely need in their own size and shape.
The traditional method of providing Red Cross assistance is with a voucher, redeemable at local stores and paid for with donation dollars, that enables victims to purchase what they need in the correct sizes and in accordance with their own taste. Making even these small decisions helps individuals begin to take control of their lives and their recovery. In addition, this process helps channel money into the local economy and thus aids the community in recovery from disaster. The Red Cross does accept large corporate donations of food, bottled water and other items needed by the disaster-affected communities.
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Q. How can I help the Red Cross?
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A. There are many ways to help the Red Cross!
There is a wide variety of volunteer opportunities at the Red Cross to support all of the organization's services. Become an American Red Cross instructor, disaster volunteer or general office assistant. People who wish to volunteer can contact the Southwest Colorado Chapter at (970) 259-5383.
Individuals wishing to make a financial donation to the American Red Cross may send a check directly to our local Chapter:
Southwest Colorado Chapter
AMERICAN RED CROSS
P.O. Box 2552 Durango, CO 81302
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Q. How can I help with disasters Internationally?
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A. Start locally! Call our chapter to discuss volunteering on a disaster relief team.
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Q. I want to help raise money for a specific family that has been affected by disaster or tragedy, but I would like to do this through a charity so that I get a charitable deduction. Can I make my gift through the Red Cross?
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A. We applaud your desire to help a family at a difficult time, but unfortunately gifts for a specific family or person cannot be made through the Red Cross. This is because we are committed to helping every family in need recover from emergencies by providing food, clothing, shelter and other essential services and supplies. We provide help to each family based on need. If we received special contributions for a specific family, that family might receive more assistance than others in similar circumstances, which would violate our principles of providing help equally to all who need it.
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Q. Is the Red Cross a governmental agency?
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A. No, the Red Cross is not a governmental agency. The Red Cross relies solely on the contributions from the American people and businesses. 86 cents of every dollar raised by the Chapter is used to support the chapters programs and services.
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Q. What is the mission of the American Red Cross?
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A. The American Red Cross, a humanitarian organization led by volunteers and guided by its Congressional Charter and the Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross Movement , will provide relief to victims of disaster and help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies.
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Q. Which counties does the Southwest Chapter serve?
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A. Currently our Chapter serves the communities of La Plata, Archuleta, San Juan, Montezuma and Dolores Counties.
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