Red Cross Seeking Donations To Help Offset 'Sandy' Relief Efforts
By Hadas Kuznits
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The Red Cross is soliciting donations for those affected by Hurricane Sandy.
Judge Renee Hughes, CEO of the Southeastern Pennsylvania chapter of the American Red Cross, says the most useful thing to donate is money.
That money, she says, will be used to fund the shelters housing the victims of Hurricane Sandy.
What will those donations pay for?
"Blankets, cots, comfort items, pillows. We would like to have comfort items in terms of toys. We have mental health workers, spiritual care workers, medical corps. All of these workers supply the needs at the shelters. So if people would make a donation to www.redcrossphilly.org, that donation will not only help families in Southeastern Pennsylvania, but it will help everyone who's been affected by Hurricane Sandy," she tells KYW Newsradio.
Hughes says there are two shelters open in this area -- one in Bucks County and one in Montgomery County -- which she expect will remain open for at least another three to five days.
"It's really a function of the power grid -- when will the electricity come back up?" she notes. "But we will stay open as long as the families in our community need us."
And she says folks can also call the local Red Cross directly at 215-299-4000 to make a donation or inquire about volunteering.
Hughes says those who would rather donate goods than money should contact the United Way or the Salvation Army, which she says can sort through donations and, partnering with the Red Cross, get donated items to those who need them.
CBS Philly and its sister properties are working together to collect money for the Red Cross. CLICK HERE for details.
