Letter: Red Cross funding getting overlooked

Few people realize that the American Red Cross spent about $100,000 to assist victims of the flood. Services included food, clothing and emergency shelter. While that amount seems trivial in comparison to multimillion dollar public works projects, keep in mind that the Red Cross is not a government agency and relies on voluntary contributions to the disaster relief fund.

To date the Red Cross has received less than $46,000 in flood relief contributions. The deficit will impact future services in our community unless it is recognized and addressed. Nearly 150 families sought Red Cross assistance, and FEMA has registered more than 1,000 cases since the flood.

While millions of dollars are being poured into tons of asphalt and concrete, let's not forget that the impact to the victims is at the heart of this disaster.

CAROLYN LEVERING Emergency Services director, American Red Cross

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