ENDICOTT, NY — The American Red Cross of Western New York joined representatives from the Dr. G. Clifford and Florence B. Decker Foundation this week to cut the ribbon on a new, next generation Emergency Response Vehicle. Designed to provide greater accessibility for a more efficient response in emergencies, the newest addition to the Red Cross fleet is one of 290 vehicles nationwide equipped to provide help and hope to those whose lives have been impacted by disasters.
“As National Volunteer Month comes to a close, today’s unveiling gives us yet another opportunity to recognize our volunteers and partners for all they do for the people of our community day in and day out.” said Alan H. Turner II, Regional CEO for the American Red Cross of Western New York. “The addition of this new emergency response vehicle to our fleet will allow our volunteers to continue fulfilling the mission of the Red Cross by delivering critical resources to those in need. I want to thank all of our partners for their generous support and for standing beside the Red Cross as we continue our efforts to support the people of the Southern Tier in the face of emergencies.”
The next generation emergency response vehicle is made possible through the generous support of the Dr. G. Clifford and Florence B. Decker Foundation, Stewart W. and Willma C. Hoyt Foundation, George A. and Margaret Mee Charitable Foundation, Triad Foundation and the Greater Norwich Foundation.
The vehicle features upgrades from previous generations including a nimbler design for travel in disaster zones, WiFi capability allowing volunteers to complete critical Casework on scene and improved fuel efficiency. It marks the first vehicle redesign since the 1980’s thanks to input from industrial designers and Red Cross volunteers.
Last year, American Red Cross of Western New York volunteers responded to more than 750 disaster-related incidents within its 27 county footprint and assisted nearly 4,000 individuals.
Every eight minutes, the Red Cross assists those impacted by disasters and emergency response vehicles are at the frontline of this critical work. The signature red and white vans deliver food, supplies and hope to disaster survivors across the country. Particularly in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, ERVs help to drive the humanitarian mission of the Red Cross forward, providing its volunteer workforce with trusted means to easily reach those in need in the wake of emergencies big and small.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
