Guardian Angels in the American Red Cross

On April 18, 2012, a family lost their home to a fire in Lexington County.  Brenda Tant did not expect such a devastating incident on the birthday of her son. On the way to surprise her eight-year-old at school with cupcakes, Brenda realized she had forgotten something and returned home. Brenda pulled up to her home to find it completely engulfed in flames.

Red Cross volunteers were on the scene within moments of being called to provide what Brenda and her family so desperately needed – support, immediate assistance and a sense of hope.  Red Cross volunteer, Chris Sanchez, helped Brenda get checked into a hotel and provided the family with financial assistance to purchase food, clothing and life-saving medication.   In addition, the Chris provided each member of the family with a personal hygiene kit that included basic items such as a toothbrush, soap and shampoo.

“Chris was our guardian angel and we are truly grateful for the assistance from the Red Cross,” Brenda told Red Cross staff.  “We have been taking things one day at a time and the Red Cross has helped with that process.”

The level of service that the Red Cross provides to each disaster victim goes above and beyond the initial call for help.  The Red Cross provides a full spectrum of services to ensure that each person’s basic needs are met and that they have the support needed to get back on their feet.

The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission.  For more information on how you can support the Red Cross, please visit Redcross.org or call 1-800-REDCROSS.