FALL 2006

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Are You Ready?
1,000 Days 1,000 Families
People Helping People
Around the World
Leading by Example
In the Spotlight
Giving Wisely
Build a Kit
Upcoming Events

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eNews from Southeastern Pennsylvania

Dear Friend of the American Red Cross:

Then, now and always the American Red Cross will be there.

As our new fiscal year begins, we reflect on our accomplishments of the past year thanks to the generous support of friends like you. It is only with your help that this chapter was able to respond to the destruction of Hurricane Katrina with such an immediate and lasting impact. Right here in Southeastern Pennsylvania, 28,516 hurricane victims found help and a friendly voice on our chapter's national Red Cross emergency hotline. Thanks to the exemplary work of our staff and volunteers, I am proud to announce that our call center was selected as the national model for all Red Cross emergency call centers.

On the heels of a record-breaking year for disaster response, we kicked off the new fiscal year with what may be the single most extraordinary month of work since I have been here. During July, the SEPA Chapter responded to an unprecedented variety of disasters - 79 altogether. From major flooding, building fires and collapses, to a power outage affecting 400,000 people, the Red Cross was there. Working with our city, state, airport and federal partners, this chapter also came to the aid of more than 4,100 evacuees from Lebanon, providing food, first aid, emotional support, and other necessary relief.

As long as people are in need, our work is never done. And as we embark on a new fiscal year, our responsibilities continue to grow. To ensure that the Red Cross will always be there when disaster strikes, we launched a Corporate Partnership Program this past spring. Our long time partner, Toll Brothers, Inc. has generously agreed to match donations to the Red Cross Council, which honors and thanks our most generous donors - a group of caring men and women whose financial commitment to our mission is the bedrock for the programs and services that we provide 365 days a year.

No matter what time of the day or night, whether it happens around the corner or around the world, you can take pride in knowing that through your continued support, the Red Cross will be there to provide immediate lifesaving aid and to help families take the first steps toward recovery.

All the Best,

Are You Ready?

Disasters are random and unpredictable. At work, at school, or in the car - you could be anywhere when disaster strikes. Will you know if your children are safe? How will you locate each other? The Red Cross of will be there for you whenever disaster strikes.

The Red Cross can shelter 10,000 people in the event of a large-scale disaster. GE Trailer Fleet Services of Wayne, PA made a strong commitment to the Red Cross and to our community, donating 10 large trailers for our disaster response.

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1,000 Days 1,000 Families

A remarkable milestone in Philadelphia's history, in March 2006 the Red Cross House, a one-of-a-kind facility, served its 1,000th family, 3,455 adults and children. In an average of just 21 days, families rescued from the brink of homelessness recover and reclaim their independent lives. This stable and supportive environment is designed to meet all of their needs as they move through the recovery process.

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People Helping People

On Wednesday, June 28th, rain soaked our region. As floodwaters wreaked havoc throughout the Northeastern United States, covering homes, washing away cars and displacing thousands of residents, SEPA stepped into action to provide relief.  

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Around the World

The Southeastern Pennsylvania chapter experienced that global issues have a local effect as well. Over the past two months, our chapter welcomed Lebanese evauees and Magen David Adom, the Israeli equivalent of the American Red Cross, into Philadelphia. Although they were for two different reasons, both initiatives showcase the Red Cross mission.

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Leading by Example

Sunoco was one of the first to support our Red Cross Clubs through the Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program. Through smart business practices Sunoco continues to help us empower high school students as they develop life-saving and leadership skills while reducing their bottom line.

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In the Spotlight

Since 1979, Tom has volunteered as a health and safety instructor and a Montgomery County disaster responder. From hurricanes to earthquakes to floods, Tom has offered a smile and a shoulder to lean on for those struck by disaster.

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Giving Wisely

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New Way to Give: Tax Incentives for IRA Gifts

If you are age 70½ or older, new legislation now allows you to make cash gifts totaling up to $100,000 a year from your traditional or Roth IRA to qualified charities without incurring income tax on the withdrawal.

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Promotion: Get Prepared

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You should plan to have enough supplies to sustain you and your family for at least three days. Keep these items in an easy to carry container such as a large backpack.

Your kit should contain:

Upcoming Events

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