Natural Disasters Overwhelm Central United States; Red Cross Responds
June 18, 2008

The following message is from Jeff Towers, Chief Development Officer and Kevin Brown, Chief Operating Officer:

As the flooding progresses and our relief efforts continue to evolve, we know that this will be a costly effort for the Red Cross. We already know that the cost will reach at least $15 million and may go even higher. To date, we have raised $5.5 million.

We have been very public in our announcement of an "appeal" for the Disaster Relief Fund (DRF). We have pulled out all of the stops to tell America that the DRF is empty and taken an aggressive fundraising posture. Because of this, many of you have asked if we have launched a "formal" fundraising campaign outside the affected areas, one which typically requires chapter and state goals and high level reporting and monitoring.

While the cost figure is significant, we believe it is below the threshold for launching a formal, nationwide fundraising campaign. That said, we need a total organizational effort to raise the needed funds.

Indeed, raising the millions of dollars needed for these relief operations will require all of us to work together. So, to be clear, here is what we are asking you to do:

Visit CrossNet: Materials from Fundraising and Public Affairs are being updated on a regular basis. These items include talking points, FAQs, photos, video, fundraising guidance, PSAs, donor bulletins, solicitation letters, and acknowledgment letters. We ask you to share this story with your donors and media. 

Reach out to donors who have an interest in disaster and ask them to consider making a gift to the DRF. With the heightened media visibility, now is a good time to engage interested donors.

We know that the affected chapters are working hard to provide disaster services and raise money in their own communities. We are proud of their efforts. Now is the time for the Red Cross to help our neighbors in the Midwest. If you have further questions, please contact your regional chapter or the Disaster Fundraising Unit at national headquarters.