November 30 marks the official end of hurricane season and while 19 tropical storms or hurricanes formed this year, we were lucky that no major storm made it to the coast of the United States.
It’s a lucky break that for South Florida has lasted 5 years, something that’s happened only three other times in our history. Unfortunately, that streak is always broken in the sixth year.
A disaster – either man-made or natural – can strike at any time, so we don’t want South Florida residents to let their guard down. We must, all of us, make it our goal to be self-sufficient for the first 72-hours following any disaster.
At the South Florida Red Cross, disasters keep us busy. We respond to 500 disasters a year – that’s almost two a day. So while the "BIG" one didn't hit us, the big one does happen every day to a family that loses their home because of a disaster, such as a house fire.
And often, the wake of a disaster, we are often asked “What can I do to help?”
The Red Cross Holiday Catalog is a great way for our community to purchase the gifts that truly will make a difference this holiday season for people in need. You can help purchase phone cards for service men and women serving overseas, infant care kits for youngsters who stay at Red Cross shelters and life-saving Measles vaccinations. No matter what Red Cross initiative you choose to support, you will be giving the gift of hope.
Have a happy and safe holiday season,
Luis Avila
Regional Officer, Emergency Services
American Red Cross South Florida Region
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