EATON — March is Red Cross Month, when the American Red Cross celebrates the volunteers who make their lifesaving mission possible. Wednesday, March 27, is Giving Day and the American Red Cross invites the public to join in by attending an event, volunteering, giving blood, learning lifesaving skills or making a financial donation.

On Monday, March 18, City of Eaton Mayor Matt Venable joined ARC volunteer and outreach team member Uriah Langmeyer to present a proclamation recognizing ARC Month in Eaton.

“During American Red Cross Month in March, we recognize the compassion of people in the City of Eaton and reaffirm our commitment to care for one another in times of crisis,” the proclamation notes. “This generous spirit is woven into the fabric of our community and advances the humanitarian legacy of American Red Cross founder Clara Barton, one of the most honored women in our country’s history, who nobly dedicated herself to alleviating suffering.

“Today, kindhearted individuals in our community exemplify Barton’s commitment as they step up through the Miami Valley to provide a beacon of hope for our neighbors in need. Through their voluntary and selfless contributions, they make a lifesaving difference in people’s darkest hours — whether it’s delivering shelter, food, and comfort during disasters; providing critical blood donations for hospital patients; supporting military families, veterans, and caregivers through the unique challenges of service; saving lives with first aid, CPR and other skills; or delivering aid and reconnecting loved ones separated by global crises.

“We hereby recognize this month of March in honor of all those who lead with their hearts to serve people in need, and we ask everyone to join in this commitment to strengthen our community,” it continued. “Now therefore, I, Matt Venable, Mayor, do hereby proclaim March 2024 as Red Cross Month. I encourage all citizens of Eaton to reach out and support its humanitarian mission.”

Thousands of individuals give their time to support the Red Cross, stepping up to help someone get the relief and care they need on what is often the worst day of their lives. American Red Cross Disaster Response volunteers and staff have been working around the clock since the deadly tornadoes tore through Central Ohio on Thursday night, March 14. Alongside community partners, volunteers from the Miami Valley Ohio chapter have been working tirelessly to help their neighbors who have been impacted by these storms. The Red Cross is operating an emergency shelter in Logan County, which is available to anyone seeking an overnight stay, “or simply a place to take a break throughout the day for a meal, snacks, access to electricity, emotional support, or conversation,” ARC Miami Valley’s website notes. Visit redcross.org to learn how to get involved.

The Miami Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross serves Hardin, Logan, Shelby, Champaign, Clark, Madison, Greene, Miami, Montgomery, Darke and Preble counties.