Letter to the editor: Celebrate Clara Barton's birthday by helping others

"You must never think of anything except the need and how to meet it."

These words from American Red Cross founder Clara Barton - who would have turned 200 in December - continue to serve as a guiding light for today's Red Cross volunteers, donors and partners, who exemplify her compassion and devotion to helping others.

This generous spirit is needed now more than ever. COVID-19 has taken a heavy toll on our most vulnerable neighbors, and they're in dire straits when another crisis strikes.

That's where our Red Cross community - of people like you - steps in to provide help and hope. This year, the Central Chapter of the Red Cross of South Carolina responded to more than 500 disasters in the region - assisting 1,700 people by distributing more than $360,000 in direct financial assistance following local disasters.

Additionally, the Central SC Chapter covering the Midlands collected more than 31,000 units of lifesaving blood, made nearly 500 homes safer through educational visits and provided support to nearly 500 active-duty military, veterans and their families through resiliency programs.

This continues to be a time to take care of each other, and what better time to honor Clara's lifesaving legacy than when we celebrate her 200th birthday this holiday season. Join us by making a financial donation, an appointment to give blood or platelets or becoming a Red Cross volunteer. Visit redcross.org to learn more about how you can make a difference for those in need.

REBECCA E. JORDAN, MPH

Executive Director of Central SC

American Red Cross Palmetto SC Region