STATEMENT: The American Red Cross Responds to The New York Times

WASHINGTON, Monday, December 05, 2005 — Sunday morning, December 4, the New York Times ran a thoughtful editorial about American Red Cross response to Hurricane Katrina. Many of the issues raised—particularly the need for greater diversity and more partnerships—are strategic priorities for the Red Cross. Our recent experience with the epic challenges of Hurricane Katrina, however, underlines the importance of these issues and provides needed impetus. The Times is also correct on this key point: the Red Cross occupies a special and critical place in America’s emergency preparedness and response. We appreciate the support and encouragement of the New York Times, demonstrated by the full-page advertisement it donated to us on the facing page of the editorial.

The people of the American Red Cross are proud of our response to Hurricane Katrina. As we have said, while we were not everywhere we wanted to be due to the huge scope of the storms, we provided help, compassion and hope to millions of Americans. By redoubling our efforts to improve the Red Cross’s capabilities for the 21st Century, we are confident that we can provide the best possible assistance to our neighbors in emergencies. We invite and we need every American to work with us to reinvigorate the American Red Cross in its 125th year.

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