Disaster Services is dedicated to fulfilling the mission of the American Red Cross, which is to improve the quality of life; to enhance self-reliance and concern for others; and to help people avoid, prepare for and cope with emergencies. The American Red Cross is mandated by Congress to provide disaster relief, although the Red Cross is not a government agency

• Heartland Chapter Disaster Services provides emergency shelter, food, clothing, medication and other necessities to victims of personal or community-wide disasters in Douglas, Sarpy and Cass counties. There is no charge for this service.

• In the event of a large-scale disaster, Heartland Chapter may request assistance from American National Red Cross Headquarters, which dispatches additional manpower to the disaster site. Heartland Chapter is qualified to respond to disasters classified as "level IV" by National Headquarters.

• Heartland Chapter participated in the nationally-administered disaster relief operation for victims of the February 1997 ice jam flooding in eastern Nebraska where 93 dwellings were damaged or destroyed. Within the chapter's jurisdiction the flooding was responsible for 36 cases totaling $15,000 in assistance. More than 70 Red Cross volunteers and employees provided services to the affected families.

• Fires are the most frequently occurring disaster in our community. Last year the Red Cross assisted 894 victims of fires, providing families with the means to pay for what they needed most: groceries, clothing, temporary housing, emergency home repairs, transportation, basic household items, prescription medicines and tools. The Heartland Chapter distributed $83,216 in vouchers for shelter, food, clothing and other necessities.

• There were 233 certificates issued to individuals attending 33 disaster courses offered throughout the year.

• Disaster relief is provided by the Disaster Action Team (DAT), a group of  92 trained volunteers who respond to emergencies day or night. DAT leaders are also volunteers who have taken additional Red Cross training.

• Funding for local disaster services comes from United Way of the Midlands and individual contributions. All Red Cross disaster assistance is provided free of charge. The Red Cross relies on voluntary gifts of time and money to provide disaster relief.

• The best way to help victims of disasters is to contribute to the Disaster Relief Fund. In Douglas, Sarpy and Cass counties, donations can be sent to American Red Cross Heartland Chapter, Disaster Relief Fund, P.O. Box 3366, Omaha, NE 68176-0355.