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Southern Baptist Disaster Relief receives Red Cross Partnership Award


ALPHARETTA, Ga. (BP)–Southern Baptist Disaster Relief efforts have won the recognition of the American Red Cross through the organization’s Agency Partnership Award — presented to the North American Mission Board on behalf of disaster relief volunteers nationwide.

“On behalf of the Red Cross, I am proud to express our sincere appreciation to Southern Baptist Disaster Relief,” said John Clizbe, an ARC vice president. “Since our partnership agreement was signed in 1987, we have seen their bright yellow shirts on literally hundreds of disaster relief operations, supporting our mass care efforts and sharing our commitment to care for people in need.”

Southern Baptist Disaster Relief is a nationwide network of more than 24,000 volunteers operating through units sponsored by state conventions and local Baptist associations. The network is the ARC’s largest and primary partner in the preparation of hot meals for distribution by the Red Cross.

“I thank the Lord for Southern Baptists who, when the bottom falls out, stand up and serve — whatever the need,” said Robert E. “Bob” Reccord, NAMB president. “Southern Baptists went to New York and Washington following the tragedy of Sept. 11 with a ‘basin and towel’ in their hands. It is an honor that the Red Cross has so significantly recognized the servant heart of Southern Baptists who responded from all over America when their fellow Americans stood in need.”

The award was accepted by Mickey Caison, manager of adult volunteers for NAMB and national Southern Baptist Disaster Relief coordinator, during the ARC’s January Disaster Leadership Conference.

“Records from 1995 to 2000 indicate Southern Baptists have responded with Red Cross on over 500 relief efforts,” Clizbe said in presenting the award. “Southern Baptist volunteers, with training in American Red Cross Disaster courses, have prepared more than 6 million meals.

“Southern Baptist Disaster Relief provides a comprehensive array of ministries and services to communities before and after disasters of all types throughout the United States and the U.S. territories, such as: temporary emergency childcare, cleanup (mud-out, chainsaw/debris removal), reconstruction, damage assessment, bulk distribution, interpreters and community church shelters,” he added.

More information on becoming involved in Southern Baptist Disaster Relief is available through state Baptist convention offices.
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  • James Dotson