Dear Editor:

As the chief executive officer of the American Red Cross in Nassau County, it is my privilege to work with many dedicated volunteers. October 7-13 is National Fire Prevention Week, making it an appropriate time to publicly express my appreciation for those volunteers who assist with local disaster response.

Many people don’t realize that when local fire departments respond to a house fire, the Red Cross also answers the call. Our unsung heroes are on call 24-hours a day, seven days a week, often leaving behind friends, loved ones and warm beds in the middle of the night to meet with those affected by disaster. When we arrive, we work to immediately meet the emergency needs of those affected – providing shelter at a hotel if needed and vouchers they can use to replace clothing, food, personal items and medications.

Last year, the Nassau Red Cross assisted 406 individuals who were personally affected by a disaster. This response would not have been possible without the compassion and dedication of our volunteers, as well as the generous support of donors who enable us to help our neighbors.

Sincerely, Frank Cassano CEO, American Red Cross in Nassau County