SENATE RESOLUTION 47

(By Senators Takubo, Deeds, and Caputo)

[Introduced March 7, 2023]

Recognizing March as American Red Cross month.

Whereas, March is the time to celebrate American Red Cross month and the humanitarian spirit of West Virginians and to reaffirm our commitment to ensure everyone in their time of crisis will not be alone; and

Whereas, Caring for one another is at the heart of our community and is exemplified by the people of West Virginia whose simple acts of kindness through the Red Cross provides hope and help in the most difficult times, and to continue the lifesaving legacy of Clara Barton who founded the organization over 140 years ago, and in her noble words, "You must never think of anything except the need and how to meet it"; and

Whereas, These ordinary individuals lend a helping hand to make an extraordinary difference for neighbors in need by providing emergency shelter, food, and comfort for families displaced by catastrophes and other disasters; donating lifesaving blood for cancer patients, accident victims, people with sickle cell disease, and other life-threatening conditions; supporting military members and veterans, along with their families and caregivers, through the unique challenges of service; using vital skills like first aid and CPR to help others survive medical emergencies; or delivering international humanitarian aid and reconnecting loved ones separated by crises around the world; and

Whereas, Their support, volunteerism, and generous donations are critical to our community's resilience; therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate:

That the Senate hereby recognizes March as American Red Cross month; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Senate encourages all West Virginians to reach out and support the humanitarian mission of the American Red Cross; and, be it

Further Resolved, That the Clerk is hereby directed to forward a copy of this resolution to the Central Appalachian Regional office of the American Red Cross.