R 134
2018 -- S 2746
Enacted 03/27/2018

S E N A T E   R E S O L U T I O N
HONORING RHODE ISLAND RED CROSS VOLUNTEERS AND CELEBRATING THE MONTH OF MARCH AS "AMERICAN RED CROSS MONTH"

Introduced By: Senators Ruggerio, McCaffrey, Goodwin, Lynch Prata, and Algiere
Date Introduced: March 27, 2018

WHEREAS, The American Red Cross was founded by Clara Barton in 1881, and chartered by
Congress in 1905, to provide a national and international system of disaster relief. Today, more
than 130 years later, the American Red Cross still exists to provide compassionate care to those in
need; and
     WHEREAS, Through a network of generous donors, volunteers, and employees, the Red
Cross prevents and relieves suffering, both here at home and around the world through five key
service areas, disaster relief, support for America's military families, blood drives, health and
safety service, and international services; and
     WHEREAS, The first Red Cross office in Rhode Island opened on Bellevue Avenue in
Newport in 1916. Today, the organization has offices in Providence and Middletown, and serves
all 39 cities and towns in Rhode Island, and Seekonk, Massachusetts; and
     WHEREAS, Enlisting a dedicated group of volunteers, as well as a staff of nine, the
American Red Cross Rhode Island provides immediate relief to individuals affected by disasters,
and helps people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies. The organization also offers
community and workplace health and safety training, and services to the Armed Forces; and
     WHEREAS, Every eight minutes, the American Red Cross brings help and hope to
people in need across the country. Designating the month of March as "American Red Cross
Month" provides an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions this fine organization has and
continues to have in building a better quality of life in Rhode Island; now, therefore be it
     RESOLVED, That this Senate of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations
hereby honors and thanks the unselfish and compassionate Rhode Island Red Cross volunteers
and staff and recognizes the month of March as "American Red Cross Month"; and be it further
     RESOLVED, That the Secretary of State be and hereby is authorized and directed to
transmit a duly certified copy of this resolution to Susan Roberts, Executive Director, Rhode
Island Chapter of the American Red Cross.
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LC005346
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