Over the past few weeks, the world has watched and anxiously stood by as a war between Russia and Ukraine rages. With the conflict resulting in approximately 11 million people being displaced, the urge to help is everpresent. Yet, with something so large and so far away, what can a person in our community do? This question can be answered by a Red Cross Club.

If you are a student or teacher at NASH, you have probably gotten an email about a fundraiser by the Red Cross Club. Many here have already donated in fact, but what exactly do they do? Across America, there are many Red Cross Clubs which are the youth wings of the American Red Cross. This is the first fundraiser the NASH Red Cross Club has participated in. However, this is not the first event they have organized here. 

“Our past initiatives include Totes for Hope (collecting care items for homeless or at-risk veterans), arranging CPR training for HOSA and Red Cross Club students, and encouraging blood donation and volunteerism during the shortage,” said Red Cross Club volunteer Tejal Dahake.

Every cent donated will go towards providing relief to Ukrainian refugees and civilians. All the funds will be used for vital needs such as food, shelter, first aid, and other critical items. All of this will be handled through the American Red Cross’ Ukraine humanitarian relief fund. 

The Red Cross has already started using the funds they have received from thousands of Americans. So far, they have sent more than 1,000 tons of emergency aid including food, beds, tents, water, and general hygiene items to more than 300,000 people across Ukraine. They’ve also set up medical care areas at border crossings and at refugee camps. Through these initiatives, they have been supplying baby care products and services for children. Even when it comes to the camps being established, they have helped by pitching tents, and generally preparing shelters for refugees.

They have even supported the evacuation of over 58,000 people from the towns of Energodar and Sumy and the Kviy, Kharkiv and Kherson regions. In the very same regions they have even provided 60 tons of food, water, and hygiene items to people in need.

Yet more can be done. If you or someone you know did not donate in homeroom during the week of April 24, you can still donate through the American Red Cross website here. The website also provides valuable information, so you can make sure your donations are going towards helping those in need.

If you are unable to provide money, there is another option available by providing physical items.

“The NAJROTC will be collecting and donating items to the Rankin Croatian Home in Swissvale, PA,” said NASH math teacher and Activities Director Sharon Volpe. “Specifically, the organization is asking for hygiene products, phone chargers, paper products (plates, napkins, plastic utensils, etc.), tea and coffee, diapers, blankets, raincoats, and dry pet food. These items can be brought directly to room 322 and placed on the table directly inside the door.”