For over 140 years, American service members, veterans, their families and caregivers have counted on the American Red Cross to help prepare for, cope with and respond to the challenges of military service, both in the U.S. and abroad. Today, unique Red Cross programs and services that care for the humanitarian needs of the military community are spearheaded by employees and volunteers, many of whom are military-connected themselves.
As the nation celebrates Military Appreciation Month during May, the Red Cross honors the sacrifices of the military community, and the countless individuals who dedicate their time and expertise to supporting service members, veterans, their families and caregivers through the Red Cross.
The Northern California Coastal Region is proud to recognize its Program Specialist, Aerial Chen, who recently completed a six-month deployment to a remote U.S. military base in Poland. Chen served as a staff member for a Red Cross program aimed at boosting morale, securing emergency communications, and providing essential humanitarian aid to U.S. soldiers.
The remoteness brought difficulties but also an opportunity to connect with the service members in a very meaningful way.
“I’m sharing the same lifestyle, staying in the same containerized housing, eating the same food at the dining facilities and using the same amenities. That gives me numerous opportunities for bonding,” said Chen. “Because of this experience, I feel better equipped to provide more nuanced assistance to military members and their families back in our region.”
Through every phase of duty, service members and their families face a unique, sometimes daunting set of challenges. From the first day of enlistment to life after service, Red Cross team members are committed to providing a continuum of care.
Through the Hero Care Network, the Red Cross connects service members, veterans and their families to free and confidential assistance any day, any time. This includes briefings for new enlistees, emergency communication messages, financial assistance, critical community services and more.
The Red Cross maintains a global presence on hundreds of military installations and deployment sites – including 150 overseas locations – allowing staff and volunteers to provide in-person support for troops and their families, such as relaying emergency messages, teaching lifesaving skills, facilitating respite and wellness activities, and providing volunteer opportunities.
The Red Cross aims to improve the health and wellness of people in the military community through programs that focus on the whole health of each person, including behavioral health workshops, hospital and clinic support programs, the provision of care, comfort and therapy items, and a global network for caregivers to increase connection, hope and well-being.
This month, the Red Cross is inviting people around the country to turn their appreciation into action. To view volunteer and career opportunities, visit redcross.org or contact your local Red Cross chapter to learn about open positions.
The American Red Cross Northern California Coastal Region, NCCR, is comprised of five chapters that serve more than 10 million people throughout 15 counties, including Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties. The Red Cross provides help, shelter, food and hope to those affected by disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families.
