Who is a member?
Our members are the local governments of Massachusetts and their elected and appointed leadership.
Representatives of the American Red Cross of Massachusetts participated in an MMA webinar on Sept. 16 to discuss how the agency supports cities and towns.
CEO Holly Grant, along with three regional directors, gave an overview of the services the organization provides, including blood drives, CPR and other lifesaving skills trainings, disaster preparedness programs and support for members of the military.
They encouraged attendees to get in touch with their region’s executive director: Grant for Greater Boston Chapter; Nia Rennix for the Central-Western Chapter; Kyle McWilliam-Lopez for the Northeastern Massachusetts Chapter; and Barbara Cotton for the Southeastern Massachusetts Chapter.
“Know us before you need us,” Cotton said.
Taunton Mayor Shaunna O’Connell and Lawrence City Councillor Celina Reyes shared examples of the impact that the Red Cross has had on their communities. O’Connell said the Red Cross has responded to 10 residential fires in Taunton in the last 20 months and is a member of the Taunton Local Emergency Planning Committee.
Panelists closed with three ways that municipalities can partner with the Red Cross: hosting a blood drive, organizing a preparedness event, and promoting opportunities to volunteer.
Grant moderated 25 minutes of questions and answers, addressing inquiries regarding Red Cross training, providing resources to all sized communities, and local food banks.
• Building a Safer Massachusetts: How the Red Cross Supports Your Municipality (3.6M PDF)