In addition, the Red Cross may be able to help with replacing necessities, including chairs, table, bed or bed linens that were lost in the disaster. The U.S. Constitution grants to the American Red Cross the responsibility of providing services to the active military and veterans of the Armed Services. USO services are also provided via the Greater Houston Red Cross. International Services include tracing of family members who are separated because of war or disaster. It is through International Services that Americans can assist people in foreign lands when catastrophic natural events occur, e.g. earthquakes, typhoons and famine.
Cash is the best means of contributing because it is portable and can be targeted to specific needs.
Today's American Red Cross has begun to provide international assistance via capacity building projects, e.g., building homes, sanitary sewage systems, water systems, clinics, etc. The social services provided by the Red Cross results from emergency needs of people in the greater Houston area. Formal programs include energy assistance for the elderly, counseling and casework and Travelers Aid. The Red Cross is an institution that people naturally turn to in times of trouble. In keeping with our promise - We'll be there .