News

Jackson County Leaders Broke Ground on One of Three New FEMA 361 Disaster Shelters.

Jul 13, 2011
Jackson County leaders broke ground today, July 12th, at the site of one of three new FEMA 361 disaster shelters.  The 10,000 square foot building will be complete in late spring 2012.  One is located in St. Martin; this one is in Vancleave, and the third one is in East Central.  American Red Cross of Mississippi State Director of Public Affairs Paige Roberts spoke at the shelter groundbreaking. [Read More]

American Red Cross Contributes $10 Million to Assist Japan

Mar 15, 2011
 WASHINGTON, Tuesday, March 15, 2011 — The American Red Cross today announced an initial contribution of $10 million to the Japanese Red Cross Society to assist in its ongoing efforts to provide medical care and relief assistance to the people of Japan following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami. “We are grateful for the American public’s generosity and compassion following what has been declared one of the most devastating earthquakes in history,” said David Meltzer, senior vice president of international services with the American Red Cross. “The American Red Cross is in a unique position to help channel that support to our partner in Japan that is playing a critical humanitarian role and comforting the survivors.” [Read More]

Save-A-Life Saturday

Mar 14, 2011
The South Mississippi Chapter will offer free CPR and first aid training on Saturday, March 19, as part of Gabrielle Giffords Honorary Save-a-Life Saturday. Red Cross chapters will hold classes at more than 100 locations across the country to honor Rep. Gabrielle Giffords and all those involved in the Tucson tragedy. [Read More]

Be a HERO!

Mar 10, 2011
To be a HERO for the American Red Cross, we ask that you raise $1,000 throughout your community and social networks. This can be done through a variety of ways: Date Auction, Bake Sale, Crawfish Boil, etc… We’ve had so many people be creative over the years. Matter of fact, the more creative you are – the more success you have [Read More]

Be Prepared!

Feb 1, 2011
 Severe weather is moving across the state producing high-force winds and the possibility of tornadoes. We recommend that you have your disaster kit ready and to stay informed.  Below are links to our preparedness fast facts for Flood Safety, Tornado Safety and Thunderstorm Safety! [Read More]

Haiti: One Year Later

Jan 11, 2011
The global Red Cross network is helping hundreds of thousands of Haitians recover from the January earthquake in the largest single-country response in its history. By the one-year anniversary of the earthquake, the American Red Cross expects to have spent and signed agreements to spend $245 million to meet the most pressing needs of earthquake survivors. Because of the generosity of our donors, Haitians are receiving immediate relief and longer-term support and training to help them recover and rebuild. And in coming years the American Red Cross will continue to responsibly invest the money entrusted to us by the American people into essential programs and projects until every donated dollar is spent.  [Read More]

Disaster Update: Mississippi Tornadoes

Jan 4, 2011
The American Red Cross of Mississippi is meeting the disaster-caused needs of families affected by tornadoes that went through the state on New Year’s Eve. As of January 4, 2011, the Red Cross:

• has publicized an assistance phone number statewide.
• has case workers visiting affected neighborhoods.
• is assisting about 50 families.
• has provided more than 1300 meals and snacks.
• has about 50 workers assigned to the job.

Blood Drive Alert!

Dec 23, 2010
The need for blood is always great during the holidays!  This is an opportunity to give the greatest gift of all, the gift of life, during this season of giving.  You can save up to three lives with every donation.  This Wednesday, the 29^th, from 7:30 – 11:30 in the morning, the American Red Cross blood mobile will be at Hoops Donuts on Market Street in Pascagoula. Donors receive a t-shirt, a free donut and a chance to enter a quarterly drawing to win a pair of Delta Air Lines tickets. [Read More]

Why the heck should you give to the Red Cross?

Dec 21, 2010
  Ever wonder WHY some give to the Red Cross? Well, now you can find out! Click on our new site to find out why it's important for you to give - and how it helps us carry out our mission.  A few reasons include:  Because the Red Cross and its partners have sent holiday greetings to more than 3 million veterans and active military. Because 11-year-old Allison Wengerd saved her sister's life using skills she learned in a Red Cross babysitter's course.   [Read More]

POSTPONED: Crossways on the Coast: Come Rock with Your Red On!

Dec 15, 2010
The benefit concert featuring Benjy Davis Project has been postponed until February 4 at The IP in Studio B. We will keep you posted as more details become available!  [Read More]

HIRING: SAF in Hattiesburg, Part Time

Dec 15, 2010
  Job Description Service to Armed Forces Coordinator, Part Time Job Summary: This will be a part-time, temporary position ending in June 2011. The SAF Coordinator will work 25 hrs a week at $12/ hour. Position is salary grant-funded and non- negotiable. The Service to Armed Forces Coordinator is responsible for overseeing the Chapter’s Service to the Armed Forces Program in achieving the goals of the Chapter’s FY 2011 SAF Grant.  These program areas include the following: Get to Know Us Before You Need Us presentations (GTKU), Military Family Networking Groups (MFNG), and Information and Referral to military families in the community. The SAF Coordinator will also be responsible for overseeing the grant reimbursement process. Casework training will also be necessary to perform this job. The SAF Coordinator will report to the Emergency Services Director and Executive Director. [Read More]

In the spirit of the season, the Red Cross offers 12 holiday safety tips.

Dec 14, 2010
  With last-minute gifts to buy, social events to attend and family and friends to visit while the weather outside is frightful, the American Red Cross has 12 days of health and safety tips to make the holiday season safe, happy and bright. 1. Prepare your vehicle for traveling to grandmother’s house. Make an emergency kit and include items such as blankets or sleeping bags, jumper cables, fire extinguisher (5 lb., A-B-C type), compass and road maps, shovel, tire repair kit and pump, extra clothing, flares, tow rope. [Read More]

South MS Chapter Canteens for Search Teams

Dec 9, 2010
Red Cross volunteers from the South MS Chapter spent Wednesday morning, December 8, providing hot coffee, cocoa and snacks to search teams in Vancleave.  The law enforcement officers were searching for the body of missing three-year-old Chase DeBlase.  A search dog and his team found the boy’s remains only two hours into the search, but Red Cross stayed on the scene to provide food for the forensics team who worked the crime area the rest of the day.  Our restaurant partners, the Vancleave Subway and The Shed Bar-b-que, provided the meals. [Read More]

A holiday gift that saves the day

Nov 29, 2010
With many people doing their holiday shopping online, the Red Cross is offering a range of more than 20 giving options in its holiday giving catalog (www.redcross.org/gifts) for those who want to make a donation in the name of someone else. The Red Cross also offers a Spanish-language version of the online catalog, www.cruzrojaamericana.org/catalogo.   This holiday season, you can also text your gift! You can text GIFT to 90999 to make a $25 donation to the Red Cross. Those who make a $25 text donation will be able to download a badge for their Facebook pages and inspire their friends to donate too. [Read More]

Northrop Grumman Employees help with Pillowcase Project

Nov 29, 2010
As a community service project, the Business Management Quality of Life group at Northrop Grumman Ship Systems in Pascagoula bought preparedness supplies to fill pillowcases for the American Red Cross Pillowcase Project.  The pillowcases are part of a curriculum that teaches third graders how to prepare for disaster and how to encourage their households to be ready and resilient.  [Read More]

Hurricane Recovery Program helps rebuild Moss Point home

Nov 29, 2010
The South Mississippi Chapter's Hurricane Recovery Program recently partnered with UMCOR to rebuild a home for Dorothy Rudolph of Moss Point.  Volunteers from an Illinois Methodist church were on board to also help with the rebuilding  Josh Joachim and Paige Roberts were on hand to thank the volunteers for all of their hard work.  [Read More]

High School senior gathers cards for soldiers

Nov 29, 2010
For half her life, Holley Cunningham has participated in service projects around her December birthday -- finding it more fulfilling to give rather than get. And this year's no different for the 17-year-old Resurrection High School senior, who has challenged her peers across two school districts to write cards to American soldiers during the holiday season.

South MS Launches Friend a Fire Family

Nov 1, 2010
On average, in Mississippi, the American Red Cross responds to five home fires every day of the year.  In our response, the Red Cross provides assistance to meet the emergency needs of those affected. The cost to serve a family of four is about $1,200.  In order to best meet the needs of our clients, we have created a grassroots fundraising initiative: Friend a Fire Family!         [Read More]

Community partners stepping up to give

Nov 1, 2010
  Last week, our chapter manager Joshua Joachim was presented with two checks from our gracious community partners Wells Fargo Bank and State Farm! [Read More]

Red Cross Responds to Cholera Outbreak in Haiti

Nov 1, 2010
The American Red Cross is extremely concerned about an outbreak of cholera in northern Haiti, and is assisting in the rapid response by the Red Cross network. As of Saturday morning, the government was reporting 2,364 people infected and 194 deaths following an outbreak of acute diarrhea in the Artibonite and Central Plateau regions of Haiti.
[Read More]

The Lucky 13! Tips for a Safe Halloween

Oct 25, 2010
Ghouls and goblins will take over the night. But even scary creatures need to be safe and celebrate

South Mississippi Chapter encourages Fire Safety!

Oct 4, 2010

As the country marks National Fire Prevention Week October 3-9 the South Mississippi Chapter of the American Red Cross is urging everyone to help save lives by making sure their home is protected by smoke alarms. [Read More]

Biloxi Office Hosts Hurricane Preparedness Event at Lowes

Oct 4, 2010
 On Sept. 25, the Biloxi Office hosted a Hurricane Preparedness Event at the local Lowes store.  The event included handing out pamphlets of information to help citizens be Red Cross Ready. [Read More]

So you want to be a lifeguard?

Oct 1, 2010
 

The YMCA of Ocean Springs will be offering a Lifeguarding class October 15 through October 24.  This is a weekend only course. Classes meet Friday through Sunday for two weekends.  Class meets from 4 to 8 PM on Fridays and from 8 AM to 5 PM on Saturday and Sundays.

    [Read More]

Jamie Lee Curtis says: Do More Than Cross Your Fingers

Sep 27, 2010
Message from Jamie Lee Curtis: Last September, I asked folks in the American Red Cross community to share what’s in their emergency preparedness kits. The ideas they gave were useful and some of them, very original! [Read More]

Position Available: Director of Program Services

Sep 22, 2010
The American Red Cross of Mississippi is taking applications for the position of Program Services Director.  This position is responsible for strategic planning, implementation and evaluation of Program Services with the state of Mississippi.
[Read More]

Neighbor to Neighbor: Coping in Today's World

Sep 21, 2010
The American Red Cross is offering free workshops to Gulf Coast residents this fall.  The new workshop, Coping in Today’s World: Psychological First Aid and Resilience for Family, Friends and Neighbors, is designed to help you increase resilience and build on existing strengths.  [Read More]

American Red Cross Increases Pakistan Flood Support to $5 Million

Aug 30, 2010
Washington, D.C., Tuesday, August 24, 2010 – As flood waters continue to wreak havoc on communities across Pakistan, the American Red Cross is increasing its support to $5 million to help families who have lost their homes and jobs and have little access to clean water and food. [Read More]

Robin Roberts Visits the MS Gulf Coast

Aug 27, 2010
Good Morning America's Robin Roberts, a Pass Christian native, visits with the South Mississippi Chapter during a live broadcast for the 5th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. [Read More]

Every Red Cross Dollar, A Donated Dollar

Aug 27, 2010
Dr. Chris Toney presents a check to Red Cross Community Liaison and Educator Jerry Brow.  Toney and his sister, Tracey Devine, raised the money to support the South Mississippi Chapter. [Read More]

Every Red Cross Dollar, A Donated Dollar

Aug 26, 2010
Dr. Chris Toney presents a check to Red Cross Community Liaison and Educator Jerry Brow.  Toney and his sister, Tracey Devine, raised the money to support the South Mississippi Chapter. [Read More]

Get a Kit. Make a Plan. Be Informed.

Aug 17, 2010
Being prepared for emergencies is crucial at home, school, work and in your community. Disaster can strike quickly and without warning. It can force you to evacuate your neighborhood, workplace or school or can confine you to your home. What would you do if basic services – water, gas, electricity or telephones – were cut off? [Read More]

New name change: South Mississippi Chapter

Aug 4, 2010
The American Red Cross of South Central Mississippi has proudly served counties in South Mississippi area for the past 92 years. Today, we continue to help our community every day by responding to local disasters.

Today, changes are underway to ensure that the American Red Cross of Mississippi will stand strong for many years to come. With these changes, service delivery will be stronger and more efficient. [Read More]

Trying to beat the heat

Aug 3, 2010
August 1, 2010 Salvation Army, Red Cross offering cooling stations   [Read More]

Stay Safe This Summer

Jun 24, 2010
With summer in full gear and more and more people heading to the water to stay cool, everyone needs to work together to stay safe this summer. Start learning what you can do! [Read More]

It's state hurricane preparedness week

Jun 17, 2010
LAUREL, MS. (WDAM) - Starting June first, Pine Belt residents have another hurricane season to prepare for nearly five years after Katrina. [Read More]

Disaster Action Teams Training Opportunity

May 26, 2010
Training classes taught during the June 24-June 26 weekend will be a special opportunity for new and interested Red Cross volunteers that want to serve on Disaster Action Teams.  This special training opportunity will be known as a "DAT Round-Up Training Weekend." [Read More]

It's Hurricane Preparedness Week

May 26, 2010
In a press release last week, President Barack Obama proclaimed this week to be National Hurricane Preparedness Week. What are you doing to be prepared? [Read More]

Local Red Cross chapter raises $1,000 - Helping with tornado relief

May 14, 2010

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com Laurel Leader-Call [Read More]

Local Red Cross chapter hosts 4th Annual MASH Bash

May 11, 2010
On Thurs., May 13, the South Central Mississippi Chapter of the American Red Cross will host its 4th annual fund raiser “M*A*S*H Bash” at the Historic Hattiesburg Train Depot. [Read More]

Text “Red Cross” to 90999 to Help

May 3, 2010
If you would like to help people affected by disasters like the recent tornadoes and flooding you can make a $10 donation by texting “Red Cross” to 90999.
  [Read More]

Text “Red Cross” to 90999 to Help

May 3, 2010
If you would like to help people affected by disasters like the recent tornadoes and flooding you can make a $10 donation by texting “Red Cross” to 90999.
  [Read More]

Text “Red Cross” to 90999 to Help

May 3, 2010
If you would like to help people affected by disasters like the recent tornadoes and flooding you can make a $10 donation by texting “Red Cross” to 90999. [Read More]

South MS Red Cross Responds to Yazoo City Tornado

Apr 26, 2010
Yazoo City, MS Monday, April 26, 2010—The American Red Cross is providing shelter, food, and comfort to people across Mississippi as they deal with the aftermath of the deadly tornadoes that swept through the area over the weekend. Damage is widespread from the tornadoes that touched down Saturday and thousands of residents are without power. Both the governors of Louisiana and Mississippi have declared States of Emergency for the affected areas. [Read More]

South MS Red Cross Responds to Yazoo City Tornado

Apr 26, 2010
Yazoo City, MS Monday, April 26, 2010—The American Red Cross is providing shelter, food, and comfort to people across Mississippi as they deal with the aftermath of the deadly tornadoes that swept through the area over the weekend. Damage is widespread from the tornadoes that touched down Saturday and thousands of residents are without power. Both the governors of Louisiana and Mississippi have declared States of Emergency for the affected areas. [Read More]

South MS Red Cross Responds to Yazoo City Tornado

Apr 26, 2010
Yazoo City, MS Monday, April 26, 2010—The American Red Cross is providing shelter, food, and comfort to people across Mississippi as they deal with the aftermath of the deadly tornadoes that swept through the area over the weekend. Damage is widespread from the tornadoes that touched down Saturday and thousands of residents are without power. Both the governors of Louisiana and Mississippi have declared States of Emergency for the affected areas. [Read More]

South MS Red Cross Responds to Yazoo City Tornado

Apr 26, 2010
Yazoo City, MS Monday, April 26, 2010—The American Red Cross is providing shelter, food, and comfort to people across Mississippi as they deal with the aftermath of the deadly tornadoes that swept through the area over the weekend. Damage is widespread from the tornadoes that touched down Saturday and thousands of residents are without power. Both the governors of Louisiana and Mississippi have declared States of Emergency for the affected areas. [Read More]

ARC Opens Cold Weather Shelter

Mar 25, 2010
BILOXI (February 11, 2010)In response to the request of the Emergency Management officials of Harrison and Hancock Counties, the American Red Cross Mississippi Gulf Coast Chapter will open two emergency cold weather shelters  on Thursday and Friday nights or until further notice. [Read More]

Hey Mayor, try bending those knees just a tad

Mar 19, 2010
Mayor Mack, try bending those knees a little bit when throwing your punches. And keep that head down [Read More]

Mack ‘knocks out’ Dupree

Mar 19, 2010

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com
  March 18, 2010 10:51 am

— Laurel Mayor Melvin Mack was in rare form Wednesday morning as he entered a boxing ring set up for the “Brawl at City Hall” fundraiser for the Pine Belt Chapter of the American Red Cross.
[Read More]

‘The Brawl at City Hall’

Mar 19, 2010
‘The Brawl at City Hall’
Mayor Mack challenges Dupree to fundraising boxing match

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com

Laurel Mayor Melvin Mack has challenged his Hattiesburg counterpart, Johnny Dupree, to a boxing showdown Wednesday morning on the front lawn of City Hall. [Read More]

Bank, Red Cross partner to spread fire safety message

Mar 19, 2010

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com
  March 11, 2010 10:41 am

— Citizens National Bank of Laurel has partnered together with the Pine Belt Chapter of the American Red Cross to spread fire safety awareness during the month of March.
[Read More]

Another Mack-Dupree challenge

Mar 19, 2010

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com
  March 08, 2010 11:43 pm

— The Pine Belt Chapter of the American Red Cross kicked off its 2010 “Heroes” fundraising campaign with a short press conference Monday at its downtown Laurel offices.
[Read More]

‘Heroes’ campaign

Mar 19, 2010

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com
  March 07, 2010 11:47 am

— The Pine Belt chapter of the American Red Cross will kick off its annual “Heroes” fundraiser campaign at 2 p.m. Monday at its downtown Laurel headquarters, 401 W. Oak Street.
[Read More]

Local Sports Briefs

Mar 19, 2010
The 9th Annual Williams Big Pine Classic golf tournament benefiting the United Way and the American Red Cross will be held Thursday, April 8 at Laurel Country Club.
  [Read More]

Jones County to receive emergency food, shelter funds

Mar 19, 2010

To the Leader-Call
  March 04, 2010 10:52 am

— Jones County has been chosen to receive $31,109.00 to supplement emergency food and shelter programs in the county.
[Read More]

Humanitarianism

Mar 19, 2010

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com
  February 28, 2010 01:57 pm

— The Laurel Junior Auxiliary presented their “Humanitarian of the Year” award Friday evening to a longtime Jones County schoolteacher and community volunteer.
[Read More]

Three fires make busy morning for Jones Co. firefighters

Mar 19, 2010

By Charlotte A. Graham, countyreporter@laurelleadercall.com
  February 14, 2010 02:06 pm

— It was a busy morning for Jones County volunteer firefighters Saturday as a they responded to two residential fires that occurred within minutes of each other and an early morning electrical wiring fire.
[Read More]

Pickering gives ‘State of the Party’ address

Mar 19, 2010

By David Owens newseditor@laurelleadercall.com
  February 12, 2010 09:50 am

— Charles Pickering, former 5th Circuit Judge for the U.S. Court of Appeals, spoke to a throng of supporters Wednesday at the Jones County Republican Women’s monthly meeting at Western Sizzlin.
[Read More]

Woman severely burned in latest house fire

Mar 19, 2010

By Charlotte A. Graham, countyreporter@laurelleadercall.com
  February 11, 2010 10:26 am

— A Jones County woman received critical burn injuries in a Wednesday morning house fire on Flynt Road in Laurel.

Business Briefs

Mar 19, 2010
February 04, 2010 09:54 am

Sanderson Farms donates $100K to American Red Cross for Haiti relief
Sanderson Farms, Inc. (NASDAQ:SAFM) announced that its Board of Directors has declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.15 (fifteen cents) per share payable Feb. 23, 2010, to stockholders of record on Feb. 9, 2010.
The Company also announced that it has made a gift in the amount of $100,000 to the American Red Cross designated for relief efforts in Haiti.
Commenting on the announcement, Joe F. Sanderson, Jr., chairman and chief executive officer of Sanderson Farms, Inc. said “In recent weeks we have witnessed what is clearly the most devastating earthquake in recent history and its destruction to our neighbors in Haiti. Our contribution has been designated to support the emergency relief and recovery efforts to help those people in Haiti affected by this unprecedented disaster.”
  [Read More]

A gift from the heart

Mar 19, 2010

A gift from the heart

  January 30, 2010 12:24 pm

— Photo/Submitted
Five-year-old Emma Dixon recently donated the contents of her piggy bank to in her words, “the poor people in Haiti,” to the Pine Belt Chapter of the American Red Cross. Pictured, from left, are Emma’s brother, Simon; Emma; and Emma’s sister, Evy; with Peggy Owens-Mansfield, chapter executive director. Emma is from Jasper County and, according to her mother, asked to be brought to Red Cross for the donation. “What a wonderful gift to help our neighbors in Haiti,” Owens-Mansfield said. “Emma’s gift is very special and was obviously given from the heart.” Copyright © 1999-2010 cnhi, inc.

MLK Parade Committee adds to Haiti relief

Mar 19, 2010

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com
  January 27, 2010 11:02 am

— The Martin Luther King, Jr. Parade Committee contributed $210 to Haiti relief efforts during a brief press conference Tuesday morning in front of Laurel City Hall.
[Read More]

Locals support aid to Haiti quake victims

Mar 19, 2010

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com
  January 21, 2010 11:43 am

— The Pine Belt Chapter of the American Red Cross received more than $21,000 for Haiti relief efforts during a day long fundraising drive Wednesday at Sawmill Square Mall.
[Read More]

Haiti relief drive Wednesday

Mar 19, 2010

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com
  January 19, 2010 10:44 am

— WDAM-TV and the Pine Belt Chapter of the American Red Cross will co-sponsor a fundraising drive for Haiti relief efforts from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday at Sawmill Square Mall, 910 Sawmill Road.
[Read More]

Rain delays MLK parade to Jan. 23

Mar 19, 2010

By Charlotte A. Graham, countyreporter@laurelleadercall.com
  January 17, 2010 02:24 pm

— Rain postponed the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. parade Saturday, but didn’t dampen the spirit of organizers. [Read More]

Local agencies seek monetary donations in Haiti relief effort

Mar 19, 2010

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com
  January 15, 2010 10:50 am

— Local chapter representatives of the Salvation Army and American Red Cross are asking those who can give to support humanitarian efforts in Haiti.
On Tuesday, the island nation was rocked with a magnitude 7.0 earthquake, the most severe earthquake in over 200 years. More than 50,000 residents are believed dead with many more injured.
[Read More]

Power crews on stand-by

Mar 19, 2010

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com
  January 08, 2010 11:02 am
With record low temperatures expected throughout Jones County this weekend, Dixie Electric Power Association and Mississippi Power are working hard to make sure their customers remain warm.
[Read More]

Weather impacting school activities; closing schools

Mar 19, 2010

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com
  January 07, 2010 05:44 pm

— The Jones County School District and Laurel School District have canceled all activities for this evening and classes for Friday as winter weather approaches the area.
[Read More]

Weather expected to worsen beginning Thursday

Mar 19, 2010

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com
  January 06, 2010 12:01 pm
Sleet and light snow flurries can be expected in Laurel and Jones County beginning Thursday morning. Weather conditions are expected to worsen on Friday as the high is not expected to top the level of freezing.
[Read More]

Single digit temps, snow expected Thursday

Mar 19, 2010
Jones County residents will likely be flooding area stores in the coming days as they prepare for even colder weather later this week.
The Jones County Emergency Management Agency is also preparing for the worst. As a means to inform the county’s numerous agencies, Don McKinnon, EMA director, provided the latest news from the National Weather Service (NWS) during a Web-based weather briefing Monday.
[Read More]

American Red Cross Responds to Haiti

Jan 13, 2010
South Mississippi January 13, 2010 — The American Red Cross has committed one million dollars to the relief efforts in Haiti following yesterday’s deadly earthquake. You too can help the mission by texting “HAITI” to “90999”. Every text will provide $10 to the American Red Cross to help with relief efforts. [Read More]

American Red Cross Responds to Haiti

Jan 13, 2010
South Mississippi January 13, 2010 — The American Red Cross has committed one million dollars to the relief efforts in Haiti following yesterday’s deadly earthquake. You too can help the mission by texting “HAITI” to “90999”. Every text will provide $10 to the American Red Cross to help with relief efforts. [Read More]

American Red Cross Responds to Haiti

Jan 13, 2010
South Mississippi January 13, 2010 — The American Red Cross has committed one million dollars to the relief efforts in Haiti following yesterday’s deadly earthquake. You too can help the mission by texting “HAITI” to “90999”. Every text will provide $10 to the American Red Cross to help with relief efforts. [Read More]

American Red Cross Responds to Haiti

Jan 13, 2010
South Mississippi January 13, 2010 — The American Red Cross has committed one million dollars to the relief efforts in Haiti following yesterday’s deadly earthquake. You too can help the mission by texting “HAITI” to “90999”. Every text will provide $10 to the American Red Cross to help with relief efforts. [Read More]

HAITI - Helping Reduce Malaria and Malnutrition

Jan 7, 2010
The American Red Cross has partnered with the Haitian National Red Cross Society to reduce deaths attributed to malaria and malnutrition.  Haiti has the highest infant and maternal mortality rates in the Western Hemisphere, much of which has been attributed to the threats of malaria and insufficient diet.  The propensity for hurricanes and other natural disasters to strike the country create an additional health and safety burden. [Read More]

HAITI - Helping Reduce Malaria and Malnutrition

Jan 6, 2010
The American Red Cross has partnered with the Haitian National Red Cross Society to reduce deaths attributed to malaria and malnutrition.  Haiti has the highest infant and maternal mortality rates in the Western Hemisphere, much of which has been attributed to the threats of malaria and insufficient diet.  The propensity for hurricanes and other natural disasters to strike the country create an additional health and safety burden. [Read More]

Jones County VFDs praise American Red Cross

Jan 5, 2010

By Lance Chancellor, Jones County Fire Council Public Information Officer
  January 03, 2010 02:28 pm

— Jones County Volunteer Fire Departments are praising the efforts of the American Red Cross following a record breaking string of structure fires over the past month in Jones County.
[Read More]

American Red Cross Service to Armed Forces Expands

Jan 4, 2010
The South Central MS Chapter of the American Red Cross has been awarded a grant to expand its Service to the Armed Forces program at Camp Shelby. [Read More]

HAITI - Helping Reduce Malaria and Malnutrition

Jan 4, 2010
The American Red Cross has partnered with the Haitian National Red Cross Society to reduce deaths attributed to malaria and malnutrition.  Haiti has the highest infant and maternal mortality rates in the Western Hemisphere, much of which has been attributed to the threats of malaria and insufficient diet.  The propensity for hurricanes and other natural disasters to strike the country create an additional health and safety burden. [Read More]

HAITI - Helping Reduce Malaria and Malnutrition

Dec 28, 2009
The American Red Cross has partnered with the Haitian National Red Cross Society to reduce deaths attributed to malaria and malnutrition.  Haiti has the highest infant and maternal mortality rates in the Western Hemisphere, much of which has been attributed to the threats of malaria and insufficient diet.  The propensity for hurricanes and other natural disasters to strike the country create an additional health and safety burden. [Read More]

Giving to those in need

Dec 21, 2009

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com
  December 18, 2009 11:50 am

— A local outreach ministry to care for those who lose their homes to fire took on a whole new purpose this year.
[Read More]

Ellisville breaks ground on new multi-purpose building

Dec 18, 2009
ELLISVILLE — City officials were joined by county and state officials for the ground breaking ceremony for the City of Ellisville’s multi-purpose building.
Hosted by the Economic Development Authority of Jones County, the ground breaking Monday marks the official start of the construction of a building near the new library that will serve as a community center for the citizens of Ellisville and Red Cross Shelter, as well as a meeting place for groups and organizations.
Joining Ellisville Mayor Tim Waldrup and the Board of Aldermen in the ground breaking ceremony were State Representative Gary Staples; Bill Felder, a representative from the office of Congressman Gene Taylor; EDA Chair Marlo Dorsey; Gray Swoope, director of the Mississippi Development Authority; Jones County supervisors Andy Dial and Barry Saul and Jason Hicks of Sample & Associates.
[Read More]

Local Red Cross volunteer finds her ‘purpose’ in life

Dec 18, 2009
 Editor’s Note: This is part of a series of stories featuring unique jobs in Jones County

Sue Pates lives a good life, one she wouldn’t change in any way. In her 70’s, she is healthy, materially secure, spiritually connected to her church and surrounded by a loving family and close friends.
[Read More]

Jones County EMA staff reaches milestone

Dec 18, 2009
If you have an emergency in Jones County and dial 911, you will be connected to a trained dispatcher at the Jones County Emergency Operations Center (EOC). Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, the staff at the EOC handle thousands of calls for assistance and dispatch emergency services units to respond to the various incidents. What often is not seen is the tremendous amount of work that goes on behind the scenes to keep the EOC up and running and handling a variety of responsibilities that revolve around managing an emergency situation.
[Read More]

Students show appreciation for law officers

Dec 11, 2009
 The West Jones Middle School and High School Peer Councils paid tribute to local law enforcement Wednesday with the 10th annual appreciation breakfast.
Cindy Williamson, sponsor for the Middle School Peer Council, said students use the event to say thanks to members of both the Laurel Police Department and Jones County Sheriff’s Department.
[Read More]

Leadership Jones County learns about social service agencies

Dec 11, 2009
Members of Leadership Jones County were introduced to some of the county’s social service agencies and learned more information about others during a day-long session designed to discuss social issues.
[Read More]

Motorcycle club looks to give back

Dec 11, 2009

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com
  December 04, 2009 10:28 am

— A new Laurel motorcycle group will be spreading the Christmas spirit this year.
[Read More]

Joan Britton

Dec 11, 2009
 Joan Britton
Joan Britton, 74, of Laurel, died Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2009, at Forrest General Hospital in Hattiesburg.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 7, 2009 at Memory Chapel, with burial in Hickory Grove Cemetery. Rev. Jim Matheny will officiate.
She was an office manager for Tesoro Oil Company and a member of Kingston United Methodist Church. She was also a volunteer with the Pine Belt Chapter of the Red Cross.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Dan Britton and Mary McIlwain Britton; and her sister, Barbara Johnston.
She is survived by her brother, Joe Britton of Sierra Vista, Arizona; two nephews, Timothy Breland of Hattiesburg, and Michael Breland of Birmingham, Al; three nieces, Meg Dean of Falls Church, Virginia, Beth Aselage of Green Forest, Arkansas, and Jo Keith, Gainesville, Virginia; and a host of other family members.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the American Red Cross.
To sign or view the family guestbook, visit www.leadercall.com
Visitation will be held from 9 a.m. Monday until the time of service at Memory Chapel of Laurel, which is in charge of arrangements.
[Read More]

Groceries for Granny’s Pantry

Dec 1, 2009

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com
  November 26, 2009 01:35 pm

— Senior citizens across the area will receive a much needed meal in the coming days thanks to the American Red Cross program, Groceries for Granny’s Pantry.
[Read More]

Local nurse excels in school environment

Dec 1, 2009

By Charlotte A. Graham, countyreporter@laurelleadercall.com
  November 26, 2009 01:33 pm

— Charlene Hill has worked as a nurse for 31 years now, but the most fulfilling part of her career has occurred within the past 13 years.
That’s how long Hill has served as a school nurse in the Jones County School District.
[Read More]

Empty Bowls program helps to feed the needy

Dec 1, 2009

By Eloria Newell James, community@leadercall.com
  November 26, 2009 01:14 pm

— When Pat Bailey, a member of St. John Episcopal Church embarked upon a new project to feed the hungry, she had no idea how it would turn out.
Bailey said the project, which began in the summer, resulted in several months of planning, hard work and help from a large number of volunteers from throughout the community.
[Read More]

Red Cross sponsors Day of Caring

Dec 1, 2009

By Charlotte A. Graham, countyreporter@laurelleadercall.com
  November 22, 2009 12:55 pm

— Jones County residents and other Wal-Mart shoppers donated toys, canned goods, pet food and much more to the Pine Belt Chapter of the American Red Cross during Saturday’s Laurel/Jones County Day of Caring.
[Read More]

Empty Bowls project a big success at St. John

Dec 1, 2009

By Eloria Newell James, community@leadercall.com
  November 21, 2009 01:14 pm

— St. John Episcopal Church embarked upon a new project to feed the hungry through a community effort.
[Read More]

City of Ellisville to build community/disaster shelter

Dec 1, 2009

By Charlotte A. Graham, countyreporter@laurelleadercall.com
  November 18, 2009 10:41 am

— The Ellisville Board of Alderman awarded the contract for the city’s proposed community center/disaster shelter to Advanced Building Specialists of Petal during its board meeting Tuesday.
[Read More]

‘Day of Caring’ is Saturday at Wal-Mart

Dec 1, 2009

By Charlotte A. Graham, countyreporter@laurelleadercall.com
  November 17, 2009 11:23 am

— The Jones County Board of Supervisors presented a proclamation to Peggy Owens-Mansfield Monday declaring Saturday as Laurel/Jones County Day of Caring.
[Read More]

WWII a ‘great learning experience’

Dec 1, 2009

By Eloria Newell James, community@laurelleadercall.com
  November 11, 2009 11:19 am

— Learning to survive with very little food while being confined in a German prisoner of war camp is just one of the things Dr. James Marvin “Doc” Moye has had to endure in his life while striving to fight for his native land.
Moye, who is 88 years young, is a retired Laurel optometrist. However, he recalls his days in the United States Armed Forces during World War II “as a great learning experience.”
[Read More]

For Veterans Day — Real Troop Support

Dec 1, 2009
November 11, 2009 10:44 am

— Ah, Veterans Day is upon us. What better time to show our support for our men and women in uniform?
But have we really been supporting them?
[Read More]

Area braces for possible brush with T.S. Ida

Dec 1, 2009

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com
  November 10, 2009 10:52 am

— Jones County residents were expected to receive strong winds and rain into this morning as remnants of Tropical Storm Ida blow into the area.
The Jones County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) hosted a Web-based weather briefing with the National Weather Service (NWS) in Jackson Monday morning that included participation from local elected officials and emergency services personnel.
[Read More]

Give a Gift to Save the Day!

Nov 23, 2009
The holiday season is here again! We had a very successful Adopt-A-Fire-Family Holiday Program last year. This year, we are introducing a new, exciting program. We hope you will continue to support our efforts to provide emergency relief to those who lose their homes to disasters by giving a pillow... [Read More]

Tropical Storm Ida

Nov 10, 2009
Red Cross mobilizes for tropical storm. Watch our WDAM video. [Read More]

Compression Only CPR

Nov 10, 2009
In a life-threatening emergency, doing something is better than doing nothing at all.  If you haven’t been trained or can’t recall how to perform full CPR, the Red Cross recommends two simple steps to help  someone survive a cardiac arrest: [Read More]

AMERICAN RED CROSS GEARS UP FOR ARRIVAL OF TROPICAL STORM IDA

Nov 9, 2009
The American Red Cross is preparing for the arrival of Tropical Storm Ida.  The EOCs of Harrison, Jackson and Hancock Counties have requested that the following shelters be opened to house residents of areas that are susceptible to wind and flooding: [Read More]

AMERICAN RED CROSS GEARS UP FOR ARRIVAL OF TROPICAL STORM IDA

Nov 9, 2009
The American Red Cross is preparing for the arrival of Tropical Storm Ida.  The EOCs of Harrison, Jackson and Hancock Counties have requested that the following shelters be opened to house residents of areas that are susceptible to wind and flooding: [Read More]

Red Cross Making Preparations as Tropical Storm Ida Heads toward Gulf Coast

Nov 9, 2009
WASHINGTON, Monday, November 09, 2009 — The American Red Cross is preparing for Tropical Storm Ida to make landfall along the Gulf Coast, opening shelters in four states. [Read More]

New Red Cross Survey Finds That Women are Taking the Risk of Swine Flu More Seriously Than Men

Oct 21, 2009
More than one in five Americans knows someone who has had the H1N1 flu [Read More]

Football rivals come together

Oct 21, 2009

Laurel-Leader Call: From staff reports October 20, 2009 10:26 pm While the big game is in Waynesboro, West Jones and Wayne County high schools will be competing off the football field as well this week. Both schools are doing fund drives to benefit the United Way and the American Red Cross of the Pine Belt Region. [Read More]

New Red Cross Survey Finds That Women are Taking the Risk of Swine Flu More Seriously Than Men

Oct 21, 2009
More than one in five Americans knows someone who has had the H1N1 flu [Read More]

Local Red Cross to host chapter meeting

Oct 15, 2009

By David Owens, newseditor@laurelleadercall.com
  October 15, 2009 11:17 am
  The Pine Belt Chapter of the American Red Cross will host a special meeting at 6 p.m. Thursday at their office at 401 West Oak Street.
[Read More]

American Red Cross Chief Nurse Advises Getting H1N1 and Seasonal Flu Vaccines

Oct 12, 2009
WASHINGTON, Tuesday, October 06, 2009 — With the first doses of the H1N1 (swine) flu vaccine being shipped and seasonal flu shots underway, people should be getting vaccinations when they can for these flu viruses, said Sharon Stanley, Chief Nurse of the American Red Cross. [Read More]

Survey Finds Concerns About Economy May Increase Incidence of Home Fires

Oct 8, 2009
Fire Prevention Week Survey Shows Nearly Half of Americans Planning to Use Alternative Heating Sources this Winter [Read More]

Southwest Airlines Delivers "Comfort" to Americans Displaced by Disasters

Oct 5, 2009
Partnership with American Red Cross will Help 10,000 People Nationwide [Read More]

BENJY DAVIS PROJECT Benefit Concert at The Dock

Sep 30, 2009
Heroes for the American Red Cross benefit.  Tickets will go on sale THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1,2009. You may purchase tickets at The Dock or your local American Red Cross offices. They are also available for purchase online by visiting www.thedockgulfport.com. All proceeds will benefit the American Red Cross of South MS. [Read More]

Car show benefits local Red Cross

Sep 24, 2009

— Residents of Jones County and surrounding areas gathered in the parking lot of the Jones Family Medicine Clinic in Laurel Saturday for the Second Annual September Showofff.
[Read More]

United Way conducts agency fair

Sep 24, 2009

— Local residents were informed Thursday about the various services available through agencies of the United Way of the Pine Belt Region.
[Read More]

Benefit car show to be held Saturday at Jones Family Medical Clinic

Sep 24, 2009
September 18, 2009 11:15 am

— Photo/Submitted
Jones Family Medical Clinic’s 2nd Annual September Showoff Car Show  will be held Saturday at their location just off Highway 15 North. Proceeds will benefit the Pine Belt Chapter of The American Red Cross and the United Way of the Pine Belt. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. awards will be presented at 1:30 p.m. Food and drinks, music, jumps, doll clinic, and face painting will make the event ideal for a Saturday family outing. Over 16 prizes will be awarded in various categories including Best Corvette. Shown sorting September Showoff t-shirts are left to right Dr. Matt Jones, Faye Poore, Britney Pipkins, and Kim Patrick all staff members at Jones Family Medical Clinic. For information about the show call 601-425-0092. Copyright © 1999-2008 cnhi, inc.

Terry, Noble named National Merit Semifinalists

Sep 24, 2009

— Owen Terry, a senior at West Jones High School, and Justin Noble, a senior at Northeast Jones High School, were recently named National Merit Semifinalists by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.
[Read More]

Red Cross Struggles, Funding Needed to 'Meet Mission'

Sep 16, 2009
Since Hurricane Katrina tore through South Mississippi four years ago, officials with the South Central Mississippi Chapter of the American Red Cross say the amount of disaster relief services it provides to the nine counties it serves has grown substantially. Just last year, chapter volunteers responded to more than 200 fires and provided more than $90,000 in direct assistance to those fire families, according to Janice Vannatta, executive director of the South Central Mississippi chapter. [Read More]

H1N1 Flu Virus Calls for Preparedness at Home and School

Sep 16, 2009
Tuesday, September 15, 2009 — The American Red Cross recommends that people follow common-sense public health practices and get prepared as the H1N1 flu virus spreads across the United States. [Read More]

Local UW campaign off to good start

Sep 16, 2009
The United Way of the Pine Belt Region has kicked off it’s 2009 fundraising campaign with about 48 percent of the goal already met.
Thanks to contributions from United Way’s 15 “Pacesetter companies,” the agency has raised about $294,000 towards its goal of $610,000. [Read More]

Church assists in providing health information to the community

Sep 16, 2009
 Free health screenings and health care information were given to Jones County residents attending an Wednesday evening health fair sponsored by Pathway Community Church in the Powers Community.
[Read More]

H1N1 Flu Virus Calls for Preparedness at Home and School

Sep 16, 2009
The American Red Cross recommends that people follow common-sense public health practices and get prepared as the H1N1 flu virus spreads across the United States. [Read More]

Stay Safe as You Take to the Highway this Labor Day Weekend

Sep 4, 2009
Labor Day is often viewed as the official end of summer and many families see it as their last chance to travel or have a picnic before summer is over. No matter what your plans are for Labor Day, most of us will hit the road sometime over the three-day holiday weekend.  The American Red Cross offers these travel tips to keep you safe on the highway: [Read More]

Katrina victims share their stories

Sep 4, 2009
In the days after Hurricane Katrina cut a devastating path through Mississippi and Louisiana, thousands of evacuees came to the Pine Belt in search of shelter. Many were unable to return to their homes because of the destruction. Some couldn't stand the stress of another killer like Katrina and made a permanent move inland. These are some of their stories. [Read More]

Evacuees start over in Pine Belt

Sep 4, 2009
Bouncing back

In the days after Hurricane Katrina cut a devastating path through Mississippi and Louisiana, thousands of evacuees came to the Pine Belt in search of shelter. Many were unable to return to their homes because of the destruction. Some couldn't stand the stress of another killer like Katrina and made a permanent move inland. These are some of their stories. [Read More]

Katrina was the worst, but brought out the best

Sep 3, 2009
 Hurricane Katrina taught the residents of Laurel many lessons when it brought its path of destruction to the city. But, what most remember about the deadly storm is how the community banded together and got through it.
[Read More]

Preparing for the worst

Sep 3, 2009
Emergency responders from Laurel and Jones County gathered at the Laurel Fairgrounds Tuesday to kick off several days of disaster preparedness.
[Read More]

Another wreck on Highway 84

Sep 3, 2009
The Mississippi Highway Patrol Monday urged caution while traveling on Highway 84 after yet another vehicle accident with injuries.
[Read More]

Dot Rustin remembered as ‘advocate’

Sep 3, 2009
Funeral services will be held this morning for a Jones County woman who died as a result of injuries from a vehicle accident last Tuesday on Highway 84 East.
Dorothy “Dot” Rustin, 78, of Laurel, was a passenger in a car driven by Gladys Breland, 43, when the accident occurred. A teenager in another car was not wearing her seatbelt and was ejected when the vehicles collided. All victims were transported with injuries to South Central Regional Medical Center. Those injuries ultimately proved fatal for Rustin.
[Read More]

Local EMA to be tested

Sep 3, 2009
Jones County residents shouldn’t be alarmed this week if they see members of the Mississippi National Guard in town averting a disaster. The Jones County Emergency Management Agency is directing a major emergency preparedness exercise this week involving all elements of emergency response in Laurel, Ellisville, Ovett, Soso, Sandersville and Jones County.
Don McKinnon, director of the Jones Co. EMA, is coordinating the event on a local level, which includes extensive participation by the Mississippi National Guard’s 47th Weapons of Mass Destruction Civil Support Team (47th WMD-CST) based out of Flowood.
[Read More]

Red Cross Survey Finds Overwhelming Majority of Public Taking Steps against H1N1 Flu Virus

Aug 27, 2009
Nearly two- thirds of Americans are planning on getting vaccinated against H1N1 flu [Read More]

Red Cross Survey Finds Overwhelming Majority of Public Taking Steps against H1N1 Flu Virus

Aug 27, 2009
Nearly two- thirds of Americans are planning on getting vaccinated against H1N1 flu [Read More]

Hurricane Season Heats Up

Aug 27, 2009
With two storms swirling in the Atlantic Ocean, the American Red Cross issues a reminder for people who live in hurricane-prone areas to update their preparedness plans. [Read More]

Hurricane Season Heats Up

Aug 17, 2009
WASHINGTON, Monday, August 17, 2009 — With two storms swirling in the Atlantic Ocean, the American Red Cross issues a reminder for people who live in hurricane-prone areas to update their preparedness plans. [Read More]

Laurel cancer survivor inspires others

Aug 17, 2009
By Colleen Donovan

Posted: Jul 31, 2009 12:40 PM CDT

Updated: Aug 01, 2009 3:13 PM CDT

After a tough year of battling breast cancer, Peggy Owens-Mansfield is back to her familiar routine of working hard at the Pine Belt Chapter of the American Red Cross. She has been a part of the chapter for twenty four years. [Read More]

Lightning strikes propane tank

Aug 17, 2009
The Jones County Emergency Management Agency avoided a major disaster late Thursday after lightning struck an 18,000-gallon propane tank off Old Highway 15 South in Glade.
[Read More]

Walt Massey Automotive / Red Cross Blood Drive

Aug 14, 2009
  Walt Massey Automotive in Lucedale is hosting a Labor Day Weekend blood drive to benefit the American Red Cross Southeast Mississippi Chapter. Event dates are Saturday, September  5th and Monday, September  7th, 2009. Times for both days will be 10:00am until 3:00 pm. WKNN radio will be broadcasting live from the dealership Saturday from 10-noon. WMJY will be broadcasting Monday from 10-noon. Radio stations will have a prize machine at the event both days.   [Read More]

Another Back-to-School Lesson: Teaching Your Children How to Stay Healthy

Aug 13, 2009
As a new school year gets underway, health officials are bracing for another wave of the H1N1 flu virus to hit the United States in the months ahead. And one of the first lessons that parents can teach their children this school year is healthy living steps. [Read More]

Another Back-to-School Lesson: Teaching Your Children How to Stay Healthy

Aug 13, 2009
As a new school year gets underway, health officials are bracing for another wave of the H1N1 flu virus to hit the United States in the months ahead. And one of the first lessons that parents can teach their children this school year is healthy living steps. [Read More]

It's Still Hurricane Season - Make Sure You're Prepared

Jul 27, 2009
The start of hurricane season has been relatively calm so far.  However, the American Red Cross reminds you that the need to be prepared remains. [Read More]

It's Still Hurricane Season - Make Sure You're Prepared

Jul 27, 2009

Locals vie for coveted title

Jul 16, 2009

July 12, 2009 01:06 pm
Three local girls will compete for the coveted title of Miss Mississippi along with 44 other contestants in a series of preliminary competitions beginning Monday, concluding with the new Miss Mississippi crowned on Saturday, July 18.

  [Read More]

Seniors learn health and safety

Jul 16, 2009
By Eloria Newell James, community@laurelleadercall.com June 26, 2009 10:56 am [Read More]

South Mississippi Hero: Red Cross

Jun 30, 2009
A big part of the relief given to any community after a disaster comes from the American Red Cross. What you might not realize is that without hundreds of selfless volunteers... [Read More]

United We Serve - 10 Ways to Volunteer

Jun 26, 2009
The American Red Cross invites you to be part of the new United We Serve program by serving your community as a Red Cross volunteer. Red Cross volunteers can get involved and support their communities in a number of ways, such as building Red Cross disaster kits, giving blood, recruiting blood donors, or enrolling people in First Aid and CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) training. [Read More]

CELEBRATE AMERICA

Jun 25, 2009
— The Laurel YWCO held its ninth annual Celebrate America luncheon Tuesday and welcomed more than 300 guests to the “God and Country” event.

[Read More]

Local firm to help service men, women

Jun 18, 2009
A Hattiesburg company will help military men and women in times of emergency through the American Red Cross. Jarden Consumer Solutions employees Susan Stewart, Katie Dudley and Cecilia Nicholson presented a $6,000 check Wednesday to the American Red Cross during its annual membership meeting at the Jackie Dole Sherrill Community Center.
  [Read More]

Preparing for the worst

Jun 12, 2009
Representatives from nearly a dozen Jones County Volunteer Fire Departments were on hand Saturday to participate in a Passenger Bus Rescue and Incident Management class sponsored by the Jones County Junior College Workforce Development Program. [Read More]

Thanks for supporting ‘Stamp Out Hunger’

Jun 12, 2009
On behalf of the Board of Directors, volunteers, staff, and clients of the Pine Belt Chapter of the American Red Cross, I wish to say a very special thank you to the National Association of Letter Carriers Branch 1437 of Laurel, Ellisville and Waynesboro for their recent sponsorship of the May “Stamp Out Hunger” Food Drive. Additional thanks to the Rural Letter Carriers in the area as well and to the United States Postal Service for allowing the drive to happen. [Read More]

History goes up in flames

Jun 12, 2009
A landmark building that has weathered hundreds of storms and taught thousands of students was seriously damaged by fire Saturday morning. [Read More]

Red Cross Youth Seniors honored

Jun 12, 2009
The Pine Belt Chapter of the American Red Cross recently honored fourteen graduating seniors at the Chapter’s Annual Senior Reception. The teens were involved in Red Cross Youth Programs in Jones, Jasper, and Smith Counties and are the largest numbers of seniors to ever be honored by the Chapter. [Read More]

National CPR/AED Awareness Week

May 29, 2009
June 1-7 marks the second annual National CPR/AED Awareness Week, which spotlights how lives can be saved if more Americans know CPR and how to use an AED. During this week, Red Cross chapters across the country will conduct CPR/AED classes and demonstrations, host events, and provide educational information on the importance of CPR and AED training. [Read More]

HURRICANE SEASON BEGINS JUNE 1: ARE YOU RED CROSS READY?

May 26, 2009
Pascagoula, MS – We know that being prepared can save lives and property during a disaster. The American Red Cross of Southeast Mississippi urges everyone to dust off their disaster supplies kit and get better prepared now for a variety of disasters such as hurricanes and the high winds, flooding and tornadoes that may accompany them. [Read More]

National CPR/AED Awareness Week is June 1-7

May 26, 2009
Each year 300,000 people suffer sudden cardiac arrest. However, by having at least one person in each household across the nation trained in CPR and the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), the chance of survival increases. Take the first steps in gaining the skills needed to respond to a life-threatening situation. [Read More]

Stamping Out Hunger locally

May 22, 2009
Rural mail carrier Rachel Wilson added more than an hour to her work day on Saturday, but the Laurel Post Office employee didn’t show any signs of fatigue as she helped unload several pounds of food from her truck.
“It’s not tiring when you are doing something to help others,” she said, her face beaming with a broad smile. “This is important because there are so many people who are in need.” [Read More]

Big Pine Classic benefit is April 30

May 22, 2009
Willams Gas Pipeline-Transco will sponsor the eighth annual Williams Big Pine Golf Classic April 30 at the Laurel Country Club. Proceeds from the tournament will benefit the United Way of the Pine Belt and the Pine Belt Chapter of the American Red Cross. [Read More]

Stainton holds fundraiser for American Red Cross

May 22, 2009
Beta Club students at Stainton Elementary School hosted a fund-raiser for the local American Red Cross chapter. [Read More]

Large food drive to benefit local agencies

May 22, 2009
Helping out is as easy as going to the mailbox, but the impact means the world to people who just lost a house to a fire or tornado. [Read More]

Jones Co. Hit Hard by Storms

May 22, 2009
“I said ‘oh my God,’” recalled Julia Ducksworth when she heard the tornado and saw the destruction.
Ducksworth, who sits with 102-year-old Mrs. Alusta Wheatley at 696 Summerland Road in the Hatten Community, told of her experience with a shaken voice. [Read More]

Home Destroyed by Afternoon Fire

May 22, 2009
Cooking an afternoon meal quickly turned into disaster for a Jones County family.
A grease fire quickly spread through a mobile home at 1596 Ellisville-Tuckers Crossing Road near Luther Hill Road Monday afternoon. A mother and her child were able to escape, but they lost most of their possessions. [Read More]

T’ville Elem. students become Red Cross Heroes

May 22, 2009
Taylorsville Elementary School has the distinction of being the only Smith County School who is a Hero for the American Red Cross this year. The school raised $1,002.68 for their Hero School campaign for 2009. [Read More]

Organizations pick up donations from retailer

May 22, 2009
Wal-Mart of Laurel awarded $12,000 in Community Grants to the Laurel Lions Club, the Pine Belt Chapter of the American Red Cross, North Jones Elementary School and West Jones High School. Adrian Coker, local Wal-Mart Store Manager, said “We are pleased to be a part of our local community and help these and other good causes that effect people’s lives in our area.” [Read More]

Downtown Soso Inferno

May 22, 2009
Twelve volunteer fire departments from Jones and Jasper Counties were joined by the Laurel Fire Department while trying to stop a huge fire at a Soso business from spreading to other nearby buildings early Sunday. [Read More]

Kiwanis Club donates AEDs to Laurel schools

May 22, 2009
Over the past several years, schools across the nation have had the misfortunate tragedy of losing students to heart complications that could have possibly been saved with the assistance of technologically advanced equipment such as an automated electronic defibrillator. To assist local school systems with the much needed, expensive AEDs, Kiwanis Club of Laurel set a goal of placing 33 AEDs total in the Laurel, Jones County and Covington County school districts. [Read More]

United Way Goal Attained

May 22, 2009
The good news is the 2008 United Way of the Pine Belt Region’s goal of $605,000 was shattered. Announced during the annual meeting Thursday, United Way staff and volunteers were thrilled that $617,207.96 were pledged by area donors, despite economic conditions. [Read More]

Local Red Cross to Introduce Heroes

May 22, 2009
For more than 89 years, the Pine Belt Mississippi Chapter of the American Red Cross has been a hero for thousands of people in our community, lending aid during times of disaster, seeing to the welfare of military families and providing citizens with lifesaving CPR and first aid skills. Now many members of our community are stepping forward to be “Heroes” for the American Red Cross, each pledging to raise $1,000 to keep the vital services of the Red Cross alive and well in Smith, Jasper, Jones and Wayne counties. [Read More]

Red Cross Recognizes Heroes

May 22, 2009
The Pine Belt Chapter of the American Red Cross has kicked off their 2009 Heroes Campaign this week with special four County Hero School drives in Jasper, Jones, Smith and Wayne Counties. Heroes is an annual project to raise funds for the local Red Cross Chapter to support local programs only. The rest of the campaign will involve asking local business, industry, community groups, and individuals to “Be A Hero” by raising or contributing $1,000 to the campaign to help meet needs in the Pine Belt. [Read More]

Local Red Cross Getting Some Unexpected Help

May 22, 2009
The American Red Cross Pine Belt Chapter got some unexpected help from a local business this week.
Teaming up with Citizens National Bank, the local chapter will be able to reach out through media campaigns and displays at the local bank. Red Cross chapters in other communities in Mississippi where there is a Citizens National Bank are also offered the same opportunity. [Read More]

Donations at work

May 22, 2009
Elaine Hudson, along with her husband, brother, and three children, lost their home to a fire last week. They are living with a friend, but Hudson said the house was already full because the friend has a family of her own. They’re looking for a home to rent with little luck. [Read More]

National CPR/AED Awareness Week is June 1-7

May 18, 2009
In recognition of national CPR/AED awareness week, the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross will be holding the following special training courses... [Read More]

SWINE FLU (H1N1) SERIOUS SITUATION

Apr 29, 2009
Good time for families, businesses and organizations to review and update preparedness plans. [Read More]

SWINE FLU (H1N1) SERIOUS SITUATION

Apr 29, 2009
Good time for families, businesses and organizations to review and update preparedness plans. [Read More]

SWINE FLU (H1N1) SERIOUS SITUATION

Apr 29, 2009
Good time for families, businesses and organizations to review and update preparedness plans [Read More]

Swine Flu: Staying Healthy

Apr 28, 2009
As you and your family continue to watch the news to learn more about the swine flu outbreak, the South Central Mississippi Chapter of the American Red Cross is staying informed as well. You can be sure we are working with local and state officials to make sure you have the information you need.

The Red Cross and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are offering the following tips to ensure you stay healthy...
  [Read More]

Swine Flu Checklist

Apr 28, 2009
For Information on Human Swine Flu, visit CDC.gov or call 1-800-CDC-INFO.  For general flu preparedness, see the American Red Cross printable Flu Checklist.  Español: Seguridad contra la gripe estacional. [Read More]

Swine Flu Checklist

Apr 27, 2009
For Information on Human Swine Flu, visit CDC.gov or call 1-800-CDC-INFO.  For general flu preparedness, see the American Red Cross printable Flu Checklist.  Español: Seguridad contra la gripe estacional. [Read More]

Swine Flu: How to Stay Healthy

Apr 27, 2009
As you and your family continue to watch the news to learn more about the swine flu outbreak, the South Central Mississippi Chapter of the American Red Cross is staying informed as well. You can be sure we are working with local and state officials to make sure you have the information you need. The Red Cross and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are offering the following tips to ensure you stay healthy. [Read More]

Swine Flu: How to Stay Healthy

Apr 27, 2009
Human cases of swine influenza A virus infection have been identified in the United States. Investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the infection and whether additional people have been infected with swine influenza viruses. [Read More]

Red Cross Shelters Hundreds as Flood Waters Threaten Nationally and Locally

Apr 6, 2009
  [Read More]

President Obama Names March "Red Cross Month"

Mar 12, 2009
WASHINGTON, Friday, February 27, 2009 - March has officially been declared Red Cross Month by order of a Presidential Proclamation signed by President Barack Obama today, marking the 66th time the month of March has been celebrated in honor of the organization. [Read More]

Red Cross Honors Heroes During March is Red Cross Month

Mar 5, 2009
March is Red Cross Month, and, to celebrate, the South Central Mississippi Chapter of the American Red Cross is honoring local HEROES: those who make a difference through the Red Cross, and others, including firemen, police officers, teachers, nurses and other “ordinary” people who have accomplished something “extraordinary.” [Read More]

George County Heroes Campaign

Feb 26, 2009
The George County HEROES Campaign will begin with a Kickoff Luncheon at the Holiday Inn on March 2, 2009.  The event will be catered by Aunt Jenny's.  HEROES will run all month long and conclude on Friday, March 27, at the Victory Celebration. 

For more information on how to get involved, contact Shirley Phillips, George County Branch Manager, at 601-947-9378. [Read More]

TORNADO SEASON

Feb 16, 2009
This week, portions of the southern United States are on watch for significant severe weather, including the possibility of tornadoes.  Tornadoes, nature’s most violent storms, are typically found east of the Rocky Mountains in the spring and summer. Peak tornado season in the southern states is March through May; in the northern states it is late spring through early summer. [Read More]

The American Red Cross sends aid as humanitarian situation worsens in Gaza

Jan 6, 2009
Ten days into the conflict, medical supplies remain most urgent need. The American Red Cross is contributing $250,000 to support the ongoing work of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to address the growing humanitarian needs from the conflict in the Gaza Strip. [Read More]

Red Cross Dollars are Donated Dollars

Dec 23, 2008
Here’s a multiple choice question for you:
‘Tis the season to be…
a)    generous.
b)    prepared.
c)    safe and wise.
d)    all of the above. [Read More]

Happy Holidays from the South Central MS Chapter

Dec 19, 2008
Twas the night before Gustav and all through the South,
Every Chapter was stirring, volunteers filled each house… [Read More]

Lifeguard Competition Canceled

Nov 20, 2008
Unfortunately the November 22th South Central Mississippi lifeguard competition at The University of Southern Mississippi is now cancelled. [Read More]

Funky Furniture Event

Nov 17, 2008
More than 20+ furniture items and more, painted by local  artists will be on display for a silent/live auction. Hor d'oeuvres and refreshments will be served. Own your own piece of "FUNKY!" [Read More]

Eat Chili for the Red Cross!

Nov 4, 2008
The American Red Cross, MS Gulf Coast Chapter will be selling chili to raise money for its Heroes Campaign on November 5, 2008.  Pints of regular and vegetarian chili will be sold at the Donald Snyder Community Center from 11am-6pm for a suggested donation of $5. Delivery is available for orders over 10 or more by pre-ordering. Pre-orders can be placed now until 4pm November 4th by emailing or faxing in an order form. View more Information and download the order form on the Events Page. [Read More]

FY08 Annual Report is Posted

Nov 4, 2008
View a detailed summary of what the Southeast Mississippi Chapter of the American Red Cross has accomplished throughout this year.  You can download the report on the annual reports page. [Read More]

Singing River Electric NHN grant purchases manikins for Red Cross

Oct 30, 2008
Singing River Electric Power Association recently awarded a Neighbors Helping Neighbors Community Grant totaling $2,500 to the Southeast Chapter of the American Red Cross. [Read More]

National Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 5-11

Oct 9, 2008
Biloxi, Wednesday, October 1, 2008 — MS Gulf Coast Chapter of the Red Cross Stresses Preparedness during the National Fire Prevention Week.  Last year, the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross aided 183 families through recovery after household fires.  That number 25% higher than it was in previous years.  To address the rising number of fires in our community, the Red Cross has distributed over 800 fire prevention kits to children ages 5-12 throughout Harrison, Hancock and Pearl River Counties.   [Read More]

Hurricane Season 2008

Sep 12, 2008
You can help people affected by thousands of disasters across the country each year, disasters like Hurricane Gustav, by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. [Read More]

GET PREPARED FOR HURRICANE GUSTAV

Aug 28, 2008
Get a kit; make a plan; be informed.  The American Red Cross is encouraging people to ready themselves for an approaching possible landfall.  Preparations include the following steps: [Read More]

GET PREPARED FOR HURRICANE GUSTAV

Aug 27, 2008
Get a kit; make a plan; be informed.  The American Red Cross is encouraging people to ready themselves for an approaching possible landfall.  Preparations include the following steps: [Read More]

Funding Needed for Flood Victims

Jun 24, 2008
As flood waters have begun to subside down the Mississippi river, the Red Cross continues to operate shelters, readying supplies and providing food and refreshments to relief workers throughout the affected areas.

The Mississippi Gulf Coast Chapter has deployed four local volunteers to Cedar Rapids, Iowa: Harold Boudreaux (serving as a service associate), Mary Ann Wells (serving as a service associate), Margaret Allington (serving as a client caseworker) and Grady Carden (serving as a warehouse manager). These South Mississippians will remain in Cedar Rapids, for three weeks to help that community recuperate from the disaster. [Read More]

Hurricanes Took a Two Year Break, but You Shouldn't Take a Break from Preparedness

Jun 5, 2008
Hattiesburg, MS – There’s no guarantee that this hurricane season will be as quiet for the Gulf Coast as the past two seasons and South Mississippi needs to be ready.  Fewer than expected U.S. landfalls over the past two years may have lulled some people into a false sense of security but we do know that being prepared can save lives and property during a disaster. The American Red Cross of South Central Mississippi urges everyone to dust off their disaster supplies kit and get better prepared now for a variety of disasters such as hurricanes and the high winds, flooding and tornadoes that may accompany them. [Read More]

AMERICAN RED CROSS PREPARES FOR HURRICANE SEASON 2008

Jun 2, 2008

Protect Your Home this Holiday Season!

May 7, 2008
“Many home fires can be prevented, and that’s what makes this type of disaster so devastating,” said Gerald Britt, Chapter Emergency Services Director. “The holidays can be a time of celebration, and by following a few quick safety tips you can help to prevent your family’s festivities from being disrupted by a fire. Making safety an important part of your holiday preparations can help you do this.” [Read More]

Explosion Rocks Small Community. American Red Cross Volunteers Respond

May 7, 2008
On November 1, the Carmichael community in Clarke county was shaken. Following an explosion on a Dixie Gas pipeline, five homes were destroyed. The American Red Cross, Key Chapter (Meridian, MS) was immediately contacted to assist. After receiving a request for additional volunteers, the South Central Mississippi Chapter began deploying volunteers to assist the families in need. [Read More]

Mississippi First Lady Visits American Red Cross Disaster Field Supply Center

May 7, 2008
Mississippi First Lady Marsha Barbour gets a bird's eye view of the American Red Cross supplies during Preparedness Month. [Read More]

American Red Cross Volunteers Organize for the 2007 Adopt-A-Fire Family Program

May 7, 2008
The American Red Cross Adopt-A-Fire Family program is gearing up for another year of assisting families that lost their homes to house fires. [Read More]

YOU MAKE US WHO WE ARE!

May 5, 2008
Any American Red Cross Chapter is only as good as its community makes it. We depend on your money, time and blood. Every Red Cross dollar is a donated dollar. Our workforce is 95% volunteer. We provide about 40% of the nation's blood supply. [Read More]

CHET LOTT DONATES $125K TO SOUTHEAST MS RED CROSS

May 5, 2008
Chet Lott, son of retired U.S. Senator Trent Lott and Pascagoula native, wrote a song called "Erased It" after he witnessed the devastation of his family’s home and his entire hometown by Hurricane Katrina.   [Read More]

Red Cross Delivers Help After Southern Storms

May 5, 2008
A line of thunderstorms and tornadoes swept across the midsection of the United States late Tuesday, killing more than 50 people, injuring scores of others, and destroying hundreds of homes and buildings. Red Cross chapters responded immediately during the night, opening shelters and providing comfort to those forced from their homes.   Two local volunteers, Will Esteve and Hank DeSandre, have been deployed to assist with the response, along with the MS Gulf Coast Chapter's emergency response vehicle; possibly more will be deployed in the coming days. [Read More]