Did you know that the Shelby County Red Cross provides services to members of the Armed Forces and their families? In fact, in the past year, we assisted 21 Shelby County military families through our SAF (Service to Armed Forces) program.

Members of the military, and their families, are entitled to valuable Red Cross emergency services. We are always there to help you in a number of ways, including:

-Stay in touch with loved ones. Our worldwide emergency communications network operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We can assist in sending emergency messages (birth, death, serious illness, or other family emergencies).

-Get verification of emergency leave information, providing you and your commander fast, reliable information to help make decisions on emergency leave.

-Access emergency financial assistance, in partnership with military aid societies, when an urgent family crisis arises.

-Obtain counseling, information, and referrals through services from the military and other sources

-Receive veterans services to which you are entitled.

-Obtain disaster assistance, health and safety education, and volunteer opportunities

American Red Cross Service to Armed Forces can help with separation and other special needs related to military service. Who do we help? Active-duty personnel, National Guard, Reservists, ROTC, U.S. Coast Guard, recruiters, U.S. Public Health Services, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, military retirees, veterans, families of all of the above.

You — or your family — may need us one day. Learn how the Red Cross can help.

Join us at the Shelby County Red Cross for our next “Military Bits and Bites” luncheon on August 12. Luncheons are held on the second Thursday of each month from noon – 1 p.m. The event is free but seating is limited, please call 987-2792 to reserve your seat.