1917 – With the imminent entry of the United States into World War I, there sprang up in Lockport a desire to be helpful in an organized fashion. To that end, a meeting was called by Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Brim at their home on the evening of March 26, 1917. All localities of the city and groups of citizens of every calling and occupation were represented. The unanimous wish to organize a Chapter of the American Red Cross found expression in a petition sent that night to its National Headquarters asking for authorization. Permission was at once granted.
The territory covered by the Chapter and its branches included the City of Lockport and approximately four-fifths of the rural communities of Niagara County. The remaining portions became attached to either the Niagara Falls Chapter or to the Tonawanda branch of the Buffalo Chapter. Twenty-seven branches of the Lockport Chapter were eventually organized, each having a complete assemblage of officers.
In June of 1917, the Chapter was located at the former home of Mrs. George Moss. (I have no idea who she was or where her home was located, but it was written that she was an old resident of the city and a woman greatly loved).
October 11, 1917 – The 1st Annual Meeting was held at the Lockport Senior High School. Work completed that year consisted of sending 36 packing boxes overseas. These boxes contained thousands of badly needed supplies including surgical shirts, gauze rolls, eye bandages, comfort pillows, sweaters and wristlets for “The War” efforts. A sewing fund of $214.60 was raised for materials. (World War I at that time was known as “The War”!) As the men entered the service, each one under the jurisdiction of the Lockport Chapter was provided with a sweater, wristlets and socks. A few of those in the air service were given helmets, and in the early days of the war, long scarves were also provided.
1918-1919 – The Jr. Red Cross became active, collecting 12 tons of used clothing which was shipped to Belgium. A letter was received from “somewhere in France” stating, “A box of hospital supplies, sent by the Lockport Chapter has been received in one of our warehouses near the Front and was unpacked today. The contents were in perfect condition and showed unusual care in packing and preparation. May I take this opportunity to thank you in behalf of the great organization which your Chapter is serving so well for all the admirable box represents. I can only tell you that its contents will very shortly be delivered to the various hospitals on the neighboring Front.”
Home Service reports that children have been born in homes of soldiers who have no way of caring for them except with the help of the Red Cross. Wives have been left unprovided for by men who profess to be unmarried; other wives of soldiers have fallen into temptation and have needed Red Cross services. Special care has been taken by the Red Cross in every detail which affects the soldier himself, i.e. as a soldier in his duties to his country, his duties to himself, and his duties to his home.
The U.S. Government authorized the admittance of many ex-servicemen to the Niagara County Tuberculosis Sanatorium, as their physical conditions were a result of their Military service. Women of the Red Cross raised money for a wireless outfit, which was set up primarily for the amusement and occupation of the ex-servicemen.
One thousand pounds of jelly were sent to Fort Niagara and a full carload of peach pits was sent to Washington D.C. (No explanation of what they were used for.)
With the conclusion of “The War,” many of the Red Cross's war efforts were abandoned. A quote was found, stating, “As long as there are needy, the Red Cross, the greatest mother in the world must keep busy with her needles.” Thus the sewing and knitting services continued.
1919-1920 – Offices were opened in the Lohrman Building in Lockport. At the time, three major services were listed: Service of Ex-servicemen, Nursing Services, and Service to the civilian population. It was also the beginning of First Aid instruction as six classes were held.
The Influenza was a disastrous force in our community. It would have been infinitely more so, however, had it not been for volunteer Red Cross workers. The volunteers followed the orders of physicians in Home Nursing; provided bedding, food, and other necessities; cared for children in the households of the sick; and endeavored to answer every call and need. These volunteers were honored for their care in nursing those afflicted with this deadly and greatly feared disease.
1922-1923 – Home Nursing consisted of 1261 home visits with 905 quarts of milk given to the undernourished. $11,879.69 was raised and sent for “Japanese Relief”.
1925-1926 – The Chapter purchased a 1923 Ford Coupe for the nurse to use on her rounds since this service seemed to be the most active. (The following is an “autobiography” of this car, which I found interesting and thought others might enjoy reading.) “I am a two year old Ford Coupe. I have traveled nearly 20,000 miles, every mile of which has been on some errand of mercy or human need. I have made over 2,000 visits to the sick. I have carried many persons to and from the hospital. My passengers have been of all ages-little children on their way to have tonsils and adenoids cared for by a surgeon who has given his services to those who cannot pay-women who have gone to the hospital for care, make the return trip with a soft little human bundle in their arms.
I need not say that I have traveled but little on fashionable streets but am familiar with every humble thoroughfare in the city and with many of the country roads leading to the branches of the Lockport Chapter. I have always given a needed lift to disabled ex-servicemen for whom I always do my best, to the Children’s Committee for Dependent Children, to the United States Government as represented by the Veteran’s Bureau, to the Tuberculosis Society and many others.
One day we were all startled to know that a man had dropped dead and that he had left six little children and their mother in great need. I rattled out there as fast as I could. It was just on the edge of the city on an unimproved road but I made good time. We learned that he had been an upright man, but had been unable to work for some time. I had a very busy time for some days carrying food and clothing and comforts provided by generous friends of the Red Cross. Later, although the mother was foreign born and not quite pleased with the hospital idea, she was persuaded to accept the offer by the mayor of the Cushing Fund Assistance and went to the hospital where her baby was born After I took her home to her children, I took the Red Cross nurse there every day to teach her American methods of caring for her baby and family.
She now has been granted the County Mother’s Allowance and I am not such a constant visitor, but I go sometimes to see if they are all right.
I could tell you many more interesting stories, but most of them are sad in the beginning. Many of them, however have a cheerful ending when the Red Cross has finished its work. I will tell you of one more place where I went many times. It was the home of a beautiful boy, the son of a clergyman, a lad that was president of the senior class in college when he went to war.
The Red Cross in its careful survey of the county, found that this young lieutenant had returned to his home with, what was supposed to be, merely a hard cold. We visited the home and at once arranged to have the United States Public Health Physician make a careful examination of the boy’s lungs. It was found that there was serious trouble. It is a long tale of a struggle to save his life. Every known means was exhausted, medical service, hospitalization and tenderest nursing care.
The President of his college sent him personal greetings conferring upon him his degree from his Alma Mater. This raised his spirits for a time, but nothing could save his life.
That family had always been loyal to the Red Cross and it, in turn, was especially glad to while he lived. Although his insurance had lapsed, the Red Cross was able to bring about its reinstatement so that these loving parents could be cared for by their boy even after his death.
Sometime I will tell you of my journeys to the Cancer Hospital in Buffalo and of the wonderful things that were done there for many people.
I wonder what part of me was bought with your dollar!
Used clothes were collected and distributed at the Lohrman Building. Also 19 clinics were set up for mental and nervous disorders which seemed prevalent after “The War.”
*** Not much activity until 1930
1930 – The Lockport Chapter was re-organized, bylaws were adopted, and an Executive Secretary was hired. The Public Health Nursing Service was reorganized and a brief health survey was taken to see what needs were present. Vital statistics for 1929 showed 466 births and 348 deaths. The death rate for the entire population was 15.9 per 1000 persons. Reasons for death included Typhoid, Diphtheria, Influenza, Tuberculosis, Cancer, Diabetes, diseases of the heart, Pneumonia, maternity, automobile accidents and other causes.
The Health Department of Lockport consisted of a Health Office, Health Commissioner, and Health and Plumbing Inspector. Communicable Disease Control consisted of vaccinations against Small Pox, and a Diphtheria Immunization Clinic for school children. Most of the pre-schools remain untouched. There was no control of venereal disease. There was no prenatal, infant or pre-school work being done. No popular health instruction existed. Much of the Red Cross program met the city health needs, especially popular was health instruction in the Home Hygiene classes, health instruction given in the home to maternity patients, infants and pre-school children, and reconstructive health work in bedside nursing.
There was a Typhoid epidemic in Gasport with 50 people diagnosed and 5 deaths. The Red Cross supplied all bedding and linen for an emergency hospital.
The first rest tent was set up at the Niagara County Fair with 12, 000 glasses of spring water served and 169 people needed medical assistance.
Wyndham Lawn Home requested nursing services for the children, which was provided weekly for inspection and inoculations. Used clothing was still being distributed and water safety courses started in the Chapter.
1931 – A First Aid Institute was held in Lockport and the Junior Red Cross was reorganized. The Lockport Chapter also became a branch of Travelers Aid Society. Red Cross became the founder of the “Social Service Exchange” (Central Index) to avoid duplication of services with other agencies. A Drought Relief Drive raised $5,017.
1932-1933 – The Chapter moved to 50 Locust Street. Red Cross, with the help of the Jr. Service League, distributed 10,304 items of used clothing and layettes. Bedside Nursing consisted of 3,514 visits and classes were held on sickness prevention, health, pregnancy, and infant care. The feeling was that many of the illnesses contracted could be prevented with common knowledge of cleanliness and healthy eating habits. 320,000 pounds of U.S. Government wheat was distributed to the needy. 1,031 family cards were now included in the Central Index.
1934 – 25,922 garments and 600 quarts of milk were distributed to the needy. Home Nursing was still going strong. Infant hygiene was instituted with a nurse visiting all newborns and teaching the mother the value of health and cleanliness.
A Loan Closet of hospital equipment was formed with air rings, back rests, bed pans, crutches, wheelchairs, hospital gowns, hot water bottles, ice caps and bed linens available for loan to the community.
1935 – LOCAL FUNDS GONE- The Lockport Chapter found itself in the rather distressing situation of having to cease its operations. A letter was written to National Red Cross requesting funds to help out, but the request was denied. National Red Cross suggested adding to the Chapter Treasury by means of card parties, group suppers and similar benefits. The Chapter asked for the resignation of the Executive Secretary and her stenographer to reduce costs but kept the nurse on the payroll. The 18th Annual Roll Call raised $1,355.27. The Jr. Service League put on a “Style Show” at the Lockport Town & Country Club, plus donations from “Interested Friends” allowed the Red Cross to continue its work.
1936 – New York State agreed to pay $600. a year for Red Cross Nursing. Red Cross endorsed action of the Niagara County Health Association to make a survey of the health situation in Niagara County. A new Public Health Law was written stating that all communicable diseases must be reported by doctors to the local health officer within 24 hours (e.g. Tuberculosis, Typhoid Fever, Diphtheria, Small Pox, Syphilis, etc.). This was the first year there was any mention of the Health Dept. taking over public nursing.
Harrison Radiator contracted with the Red Cross at $50. per month for a visiting nurse service for absent employees; first aid instruction for plant police; an Industrial Nursing Service for employees and families not financially able to afford it; and advising of employees in regard to dirt, health, sanitation and home budgeting.
The Annual Meeting was held at the Lox Plaza Hotel for $.85 per person. It was also the beginning of the Hi-Way First Aid Program.
1937 – Highest Roll Call membership drive since 1920. Many instructional classes were held in the care of patients suffering from communicable diseases. Red Cross School Nursing was begun in Parochial Schools.
Ohio and Mississippi Valley Flood Relief collected $11,313.05, plus one carload each of food and clothing sent from the Lockport Chapter.
1938 – Public Health Nursing distributed gallons of cod liver oil. (This seemed to be a cure-all for many diseases!)
The chapter held many “well baby,” vaccination, and home hygiene clinics.
1939 – Red Cross offices moved to the basement of the Post Office Building on the corner of Elm and Main Streets. The Annual Meeting was held at Hi-Gate Manor, 268 High St. at a cost of $.50 per person. The Board of Directors voted to bring to the attention of the Town of Newfane that no lifesaving equipment was available in Olcott, and that the drowning rate was alarming. They suggested placing life rings, warning signs, and cable near the piers at Olcott.
Red Cross manned a First Aid tent at the Niagara County Fair. It was noted that “two lion tamers were clawed!”
1940 – Public Nursing is still very active with 3,434 home visits, 2 delivery cases and 109 communicable diseases of strep throat, ringworm, and scarlet fever. 1,012 articles of used clothing were distributed and 2,257 items were knitted for the war relief. Junior Red Cross made gifts and favors for the Infirmary and Sanatorium and painted and mended toys for the Salvation Army. Red Cross was asked to join “Community Fund” but had to refuse according to National Policy.
The Lifesaving Committee was pursuing the idea of building a swimming pool inside the City of Lockport or at Outwater Park with government help. The Jr. Service League was using Red Cross rooms for monthly meetings.
Lockport quota was $8,000 for War Fund; $7,949.48 was raised.
1941 – WWII Wartime Home Service: 55 contacts made. Knitting and sewing was done for European War Relief producing 18,000 garments and 2,256 knitted articles. 4,000 visits for Home Nursing, many of those visited cannot speak English. The first Disaster Plan was written for Lockport Red Cross.
1942 – This was the first mention of blood donors with 5 bloodmobiles and 480 units collected.
Red Cross Youth collected 2,500 coat hangers, 7,000 usable books, and made 521 kit bags for soldiers at Fort Niagara. (This community seemed to contribute much to Ft. Niagara!)
26,386 garments were completed for war relief and 364 Air Raid Wardens were taught First Aid. A station wagon was purchased for $850 for the Motor Corp. and the Canteen Corp. was organized.
Harrison Radiator discontinued Nursing Service and the $50. monthly fee.
1943 – “Gray Ladies” unit formed at Lockport Memorial Hospital. The following quote was found in the Annual Report: “21 ladies wearing a uniform of a soft flowing gray veil with it’s white head band bearing the Red Cross insignia is a gracious head covering and the touch of white repeated in the collar, cuffs, shoulder tabs and pockets of the gray uniform are very effective. It would be difficult to conceive a more suitable and charming ensemble for the hospital corridors”.
A Home Services Secretary was hired due to the increase in wartime casework. The Chapter moved to Hawley Street School (Community Service Building). Nine Bloodmobile drives were held collecting 1,000 units of blood.
Public Health Nursing Terminated- This service was turned over to the Lockport Council of Community Agencies, which consisted of 55 Social Welfare Organizations. (Public Health Nursing was a large part of Red Cross for so many years that, even today, people think that all Red Cross employees are nurses.)
It was noted that 80% of sailors cannot swim. Boot Camp training now to include water safety and swimming lessons with emphasis on swimming fully clothed. This is available at Chapter level.
1944 – Surgical dressings are no longer needed for the war effort. Lockport processed and sent 1,438,000 and received a letter of appreciation from E. Roland Harriman, Manager, North Atlantic Area, American Red Cross.
Home Service processed 3,836 cases with an increase in Prisoner of War Service. False rumor started that servicemen had to pay for blood plasma. 2,435 units of blood collected in the Lockport area.
Red Cross station wagon used as ambulance during blackouts.
1945 – War Fund goal-$74,500. Total raised from Lockport area was $88,196.78.
Volunteers baked 40-60 dozen cookies and delivered them weekly to Ft. Niagara.
1946 – Gray Lady activity at Lockport Hospital falling off; Canteen Corp. is inactive. Chapter held “War Bride” Luncheon which was very successful with much publicity. Still more sewing; this time for Overseas Civilian War Relief.
1947 – Chapter bylaws were adopted. Disaster and Nutrition Committees were formed. Letter of May, 1942 from Secretary of War Stinson was reviewed due to G.I. complaints that they were charged for food and lodging in overseas clubs.
Lockport Chapter quota for Canandaigua Hospital is 5,000 cigarettes per month.
1948 – “Gray Ladies” reactivated by request of Lockport Memorial Hospital Administration. Chapter left Community Services Building as the City of Lockport closed it; returned to Post Office building.
1949-1950 – Lockport Red Cross joined Buffalo Regional Blood Program (Canteen reactivated). May 24, 1949- First community bloodmobile at the American Legion; only a disappointing 46 units of blood were collected.
Buffalo Veteran’s Administration Hospital opened January 15, 1950. Volunteer service withdrew from Batavia VA; now sending sewing and knitted articles to Buffalo VA.
Fire in the Lincoln Building considered National Disaster as incidents involving over 5 families were so classified by National, with full reimbursement.
1950-1951 – Harrison Radiator was brought into the blood program with 1,848 units collected. Civil Defense reactivated due to Korean situation, working with Disaster Committee. Purchased new station wagon.
1951-1952 – Branch visits added to the Blood Program with 2,164 units collected. Missouri-Mississippi Flood disaster quota-$4,400.
New development in First Aid: Change from prone pressure method of artificial respiration to the “back pressure arm lift” method.
Increase in Home Service due to Shawnee Air Force Base being located in Chapter area.
1952-1953 – Gamma Gloubulin discovered to be an effective preventative for polio. Lockport Chapter now picks up blood for Lockport City Hospital and Niagara Sanatorium with help from Jr. Service League.
1953-1954 – 600 cases served by Home Service. Water Safety Aide Program started.
1954-1955 – Chapter moved upstairs in the Post Office building. Headquarters set up at Red Cross office in preparation for Hurricane “Hazel”.
1955-1956 – 19 Bloodmobile drives were held with 2,054 units collected. 31 Registered Nurses volunteered for bloodmobiles doing vein-puncture and medical histories. Volunteers can no longer perform these duties.
1956-1957 – 1st mock disaster held in cooperation with Civil Defense at Wendelville. $1,801. raised for displaced Hungarians.
1957-1958 – 1,896 units of blood collected. Six fires and 487 cases served by Home Service.
1958-1959- First Aid taught to Sheriff’s Department, Sheriff’s Mounted Police, and Rookie Police. Chapter serviced 15 fires and found shelter for 60 cows. (Over and above the call of duty!!)
1959-1960 – Lockport Red Cross joins Community Chest. Goal for that year was $205,000. Sicilian Buffet was held at St. Joseph’s new parish hall to benefit Red Cross. Two patients from Lockport received open-heart surgery at Children’s Hospital, needing 20 units of blood.
Revision of Bylaws. The most important revision was the name change to “Eastern Niagara County Chapter” to make the branches feel more a part of the chapter.
1960-1961 – First talk of freezing blood. 2,219 units collected. Chapter bought new station wagon, Nassau blue with Red Crosses printed on side. Group Medical plan instituted for office staff. Lockport Senior high School pool built and opened.
1961-1962 – 763rd Air Base at Cambria added to Home Service. Peace Corp. in Panama started. Volunteers need first aid and home nursing training to apply.
Reorganization of National Red Cross. Buffalo Red Cross to encompass Erie and Niagara counties (metroplex).
“Teaching Johnny to Swim”-water safety film shown to all PTA groups in Lockport area. Swim and Stay fit program started.
1962-1963 – Blood donor age requirement 21 to 59 inclusive. Personnel Policy adopted major fire in Newfane affecting 9 families. Disaster team set up. Bookmobile instituted at Lockport Memorial Hospital through joint effort of Red Cross and Jayncees.
1963-1964 – Lockport Red Cross volunteers have largest number of hours served at VA Hospital in Buffalo. Name of Home Service changed to “Service to Military Families”. Distinctive uniforms and insignias for specific services are discontinued and all Red Cross volunteers will wear the same uniform and be known as “Red Cross Volunteers”. No more distinctive membership such as Motor Corp., Canteen, etc. Service to Military volunteers now used for night and weekend coverage.
1964-1965 – Disaster Alert System and Mutual Aid in place for immediate Red Cross assistance. Youth Committee packed 500 Christmas stockings for children in the Azores. 23 high school girls volunteer at VA hospital.
1965-1966 – National Red Cross imposes disaster quota on Chapter of $3,191,which was met. Wilson, Barker and Pendleton were added to the bloodmobile schedule. New wing (1 North) opened at Lockport Memorial Hospital. Red Cross volunteers acted as hostesses during Open House.
1966-1967 – Blood collections dropped. Region to institute a program of rationing blood to chapters who have not met their quota.
First Recognition Tea held.
Lockport Community pool added to swim program.
1967-1968 – Senior Citizen sewers began making wristlets, booties, bibs and binders for the VA hospital in Buffalo.
615 ditty bags were packed and shipped to Vietnam.
Briarwood Pool was added to the swim program.
1968-1969 – 11 families were left homeless by a fire on Pine St.; immediate Red Cross assistance was given.
Tri-Town Ambulance was formed in Gasport with 106 persons trained in First Aid.
1969-1970 – 911 Emergency number in use in area started as a project of the Board of Directors of the American Red Cross.
1970-1971 – New Multi-Media First Aid training begins in Lockport.
1971-1972 – War in Vietnam ends. Service to Military caseload down. 2,595 units of blood collected. Hurricane Agnes hits Eastern United States.
1972-1973 – Niagara County Community College now officially in the territory of Eastern Niagara County and added to the Bloodmobile schedule.
1973-1974 – Local Blood Program reaches goal of 2,575 units. Lockport Air Force Station and Lockport Mall added to blood visits.
Poster Contest held in elementary schools. Winning design was used for Annual Report Cover.
1974-1975 – Blood program growing with Starpoint and Lockport Senior High Schools added.
Jr. Volunteer Program started at Lockport Memorial Hospital with 27 Jr. volunteers. Disaster Action Explorer Post 305 organized for chapter.
Red Cross nurses and volunteers help with Swine Flu inoculations.
1975-1976 – Outstanding blood collection year with 3,837 units. CPR started in Chapter with 10 new instructors and the purchase of two Recording Annies.
Chapter honored with a Board Member being appointed on a National Committee.
1976-1977 – Red Cross purchased a new Chapter House at 178 East Ave., made possible by the generosity of the late Nan and Dora Taylor through their estate and the generosity of the owner Dr. & Mrs. Francis Clifford.
296 certificates issued in the new CPR program.
1977-1978 – An “Open House” was held with hors d’oeuvres and red rose flower arrangements made by canteen volunteers.
Lockport Service to Military Director (me, Marilyn Olear) called to Johnstown, Pa.for 15 days to serve flood victims. (Very memorable experience-proud to be part of the Red Cross family!)
Community CPR push has resulted in gifts of mannequins; 711 certificates issued.
1978-1979 – Blood Program sliding downhill;Disaster Services growing. Chapter spent 252% of disaster budget providing assistance.
Lockport Service to Military Director (me, again) presented with an award from the 763rd Radar Squadron for significant contributions to service members and families;very special evening.
Use of Red Cross insignia now standardized through Graphics Standard Manual.
New Blood Center opened in Buffalo.
1979-1980 – Sherwood Selpac added to Bloodmobile schedule.
Hub Hotel in Wilson burns; 17 families were assisted on the spot at Wilson Fire Hall.
1980-1981 – American National Red Cross 100 years old.
All time high blood collections-4,310 units.
1981-1982 – Chapter asked to do Community Needs Assessment. One need found to be most serious was Substance Abuse. A permanent committee was formed to work with drug and alcohol abuse education and treatment. The committee will try to get a rehabilitation facility in Niagara County.
1982-1983 – New York State Electric and Gas established “Project Share,” a program administered by Red Cross to offer energy payment assistance to the elderly.
Lockport Chapter honors its first Certificate of Merit award winner.
National quota Disaster Campaign of $4,201 was raised.
New “Lifeguarding Course” included in Water Safety Program.
National structure changed; gone are “divisions” which have been replaced with “territories and cluster.”
1983-1984 – Free blood pressure screening by the Red Cross begins at Lockport Mall. “I’m OK” program implemented at Urban Park Towers Senior Housing. “Aids” scare hurts blood program. Chapter joins “Direct Approach,” a National Mail Fund Campaign.
1984-1985 – Car seat loan program “K.I.S.S.” (keep infants seated safely), started in Lockport. Lockport Red Cross leads mock disaster in Batavia for cluster. Seven Chapters were involved with 2 shelters set up.
1985-1986 – National Disaster Fund Diminished. Local Chapter was assessed $6,515, raised $9,150.
Red Cross sign was placed in front of Chapter House for more visibility. BOCES woodworking students constructed it.
Basic Aid training, Home Alone and Babysitting courses offered at Chapter. Back blows were eliminated in the choking maneuver.
1986-1987 – Disaster Drill held in Middleport. Three shelters were opened with 242 people involved. Substance Abuse Committee educating school children through the efforts of the Niagara County Sheriff’s Dept.
1987-1988 – Chapter House offices have been painted and wallpapered. New carpets and furniture have been purchased and the front sidewalks replaced.
Our “Adopt A Mannequin” campaign brought in six adult and three child mannequins from community service organizations.
Computer purchased for chapter.
1988-1989 – Shelter set up at South Lockport Fire Hall due to gas leak in the Town of Lockport. 250 people were housed for six hours.
All CPR and First Aid instructors go through retraining.
New “Blood Bus” which is a self-contained unit, used in Lockport. Small industries, which in the past could not house a bloodmobile, can now participate in the blood program.
Chapter used “Direct Approach” which is a mail campaign out of National Red Cross and held a Disaster Dance raising $22,990. (Very proud group we were, raising so much over goal!)
1989-1990 – Lockport Red Cross received the “Chapter of the Year” award from Buffalo Regional Blood Program for collecting 4,031 units of blood.
1990-1991 – The Chapter collected over 2,000 boxes of Ziplock Baggies which were packaged and shipped to service members in the Persian Gulf to protect their belongings from the sand. A Family Support group named “Operation Home Safe” was formed. They designed sweatshirts, T-Shirts and baseball caps, which were sold in the community. The proceeds were used to help families finding themselves in a financial bind because of the war. The group also purchased plastic yellow bows which were displayed along Main St. and marched in the victory parade. Harrisons donated three convertibles for some of the group to ride in (red, white and blue). The bond between this group and Red Cross will continue for years to come!
A substance abuse center “Reflections” was opened at Lockport Memorial Hospital. Much credit must be given to the Red Cross Committee which has been working on this since 1981 and has now transferred its effort to help the hospital.
A fax machine and Easy Link (direct communication with National for Service to Armed Forces) were added to office equipment.
1991-1992 – The Eastern Niagara County Chapter is now 75 years old and still going strong. Our blood collections are down somewhat, but we are working hard to bring them up. The CPR and first aid programs are growing with a 22% increase in First Aid certificates issued and a 12% increase in CPR. We still offer blood pressure screening periodically at the Lockport Mall and health fairs.
The Disaster Program went over budget by 40% but our charter mandates this program and these needs must be met.
The Youth Program consists of babysitting training, basic aid training, and the car seat loan program.
The hospital equipment loan closet has provided temporary relief to many people in the community at no cost. The Water Safety program is continually being updated, making it safer and more state of the art.
Our Assistant Director spent three weeks in Louisiana helping the victims of the largest hurricane ever to hit the United States-Hurricane Andrew. Our Chapter now has been assessed $20,595. which will certainly be a great challenge (hopefully, not impossible!)
1992-1993 – Disaster costs down this year but sent $905. to National. Major disasters climbing. Zonta Club of Lockport donated $5,000. to the Chapter for disaster equipment. Purchased cots, blankets, and supplies to enable us to set up a shelter for 100 people, per a mandate from New York State.
House: Added new carpeting and storage shed to property at 178 East Ave.
Blood: Collections at 86% of goal. Keep meeting to see what we can do to increase donations, but donations are down nationwide.
1993-1994 – Disaster cost 23% over budget. Two local volunteers involved in relief work in flood ravaged Georgia. Blood collections at 77% of goal. FDA regulating volunteer procedures. Lost many of our long time volunteers as staff has had to take over volunteer positions. Decrease in blood reimbursement.
CPR- Retraining of CPR instructors. Now offering six new CPR and First Aid courses.
Fund Raising: With United Way reductions, our chapter had to begin doing fundraising (first time in 20 years). We sold Red Cross candy in conjunction with Buffalo, and made $536;decided not to do that again. We also ran our first “Sock Hop” netting $1,207. Lots of fun with everyone dressing up in 50s garb but most of the money was made from the Chinese Auction.
1994-1995 – First Community Campaign with media help from National. “Help Can’t Wait” is the theme and is now printed on all letterheads and envelopes.
Disaster: 57% over goal; mostly due to setting up a shelter at South Lockport Fire Hall, taking care of 18 families burned out in an apartment building on Robinson Road. Terrible bombing of government building in Oklahoma City killed 187 persons. Since Timothy McVeigh (the suspected bomber) was from the town of Pendleton—which is in our territory—many people donated disaster monies to this Chapter; but it is restricted to use in Oklahoma City.
Blood- 86% of goal. Tried Bloodmobiles for the midnight shift at Harrison but collections not worth it; certainly was not cost effective.
Member & Funds: Sock Hop again netting $1700.
House: Looking at different places for sale for new Chapter House that will be handicapped accessible.
1995-1996 – Disaster expenses under budget this year but disaster budget raised after last year’s expenditures.
Blood: We became one of the state’s first “Communities that Care” for the summer collections. Blood collections still down.
Members & Funds: Had Sock Hop netting $2000. Plans underway to sell Gund brand stuffed animals at Christmas.
House: Miriam Morris bequeathed our Chapter $100,000. so we decided to go ahead quickly with new house plans. Had house plans drawn up according to our specifications, got three bids (Rosati Construction lowest bid), and purchased property on Davison Road. Ground breaking was December 5, 1995. Many decisions have been made on siding, roofing, colors, carpets, etc. We will be moving in this summer. The Chapter house on East Ave. is up for sale. Really an exciting time, but so many big decisions!
1996-1997 – Moving day Friday, July 19,1996. We had to be open for business Monday…and we were!!! Thank you staff (I had a broken toe and wasn’t much help), Board members, and families. Everyone worked hard, fast and efficiently.
We held an “Open House” in August, 1997 which proved to be successful with 100 people attending. We served snacks, punch and cake and gave tours (proudly)! A large red ribbon was cut at the front of the building for its official opening. The work crew from the Niagara County Jail did an excellent job in providing the landscaping!
Disaster: The disaster budget went crazy this year (ending at 138%) with two apartment fires on Robinson Rd. Sent letters to Service Organizations requesting disaster funds to help our budget and received $4,174. This community really comes through in times of need!
Blood: Had our first Bloodmobile Drive at our Chapter House in February, 1997. It was very successful and we will continue to have mobiles here every other month on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays. Even with the new mobiles, the blood collections are down and so is communication with the blood center—an ongoing problem.
Fundraising: We seem to be doing a lot more fundraising now than we have in the past. Along with selling the Gund animals (which has proved to be very successful) we replaced our Sock Hop with a Chiavetta’s Chicken Barbecue. We made a profit of $1,375. the first time and ran out of chicken in two hours. Next year…more chicken! With the expertise of our Board members, we had the first “Drive Thru” Chicken BBQ and the community loved it.
1997-1998 – This year a shed was donated to us; it was placed in our back yard and we had it sided to match the house. We also had awnings and shutters attached to the house. With each addition, the building looks better and better. A great year for flowers and our Salvias and Geraniums were beautiful.
Disaster: Normal disaster year. We had a restructuring of the Disaster Team giving each worker a pager and also assigning them defined after-duty evenings and weekends.
Blood: The Bloodmobiles are doing well in the Chapter house. We added two more Bloodmobile Drives this year. Donors enjoy coming here and it provides great visibility.
Fund-raising: We added another chicken barbecue selling 820 chickens. We have quite a system for drive-thru. 18 Board members helped on BBQ day!!
Health & Safety: CPR and First Aid are growing yearly. Babysitting classes have also been added to our monthly schedule.
1998-1999 – This has been a pretty normal year. Housewise, we added a new glass partition in the front entryway for added security and heating and cooling conservation. The garage was sealed and painted and a vapor barrier was added in the basement crawl space.
Disaster: Pretty normal disaster year except for the preparation of Y2K. National has come up with a very informational flyer. Along with the disaster preparedness flyer, we can offer the public a decent combination of information and suggestions.
Fund-raising: We added a January BBQ with the thought that during the winter months, no other organization in the area offers this. It was very successful selling 750 dinners. It was cold standing in the driveway, but fun. Chicken hats were ordered and all the volunteers wore them…along with a chicken suit worn by our Chairman who directed cars and drivers into the parking lot!
Health & Safety: AED (Automated External Defibrillation) training has been added to our programs and we are ready to meet the needs of the community, but the requests for training have been very slow.
1999-2000 – This has been a very challenging and rewarding year for our Chapter. Our Disaster Plan had to be rewritten and approved by Regional before the Rechartering process. This was accomplished (no easy task) and all the forms were filled out for Rechartering. Regional has informed us that we will be rechartered for the next five years, when the process starts all over again. I announced that I would be retiring at the end of 2000 and a Search Committee was put into action. The whole process is regulated through Regional and the Committee followed every rule and regulation put forth. By October, they had made their decision and announced it at the Volunteer Luncheon/Annual Meeting (changed this year because of my retirement).
Disaster: Pretty normal disaster year. Most of the problems stemmed from carbon monoxide poisoning and faulty furnace emissions.
Blood: The blood program has its struggles…but not locally; these problems all take place in the Regional offices. The Bloodmobile Drives at our Chapter house continually increase in numbers and satisfaction. We added three Drives throughout the summer shortage and have an extra one scheduled for the day after Christmas.
Health & Safety: Each month our community courses reach maximum attendance. More industry classes are added each year. Our Health and Safety program continues to be healthy.
Fund-raising: Thanks to a very responsive Board of Directors who help with the three chicken BBQ’s that we have taken on annually, we sold a total of 3,025 dinners this fiscal year, raising a net profit of $6,614. We thank the BOCES cooking students who baked and packaged brownies for these endeavors. Each time we learn something new and better that enhances our BBQs. It’s a great way to make money and a fun time for all!! (I will miss these!!) The Eastern Niagara County Chapter was named as a beneficiary in the estate of Marion Ward.
I leave my chapter in good hands with Maureen Siekierski as Executive Director and Julie Harpst as Assistant Director. Both have served as my loyal staff for 13 to 15 years. Thank you Red Cross for 26 fulfilling and rewarding years,and thank you for the Crimson Maple tree in the front yard that was planted in my honor. May it grow strong and tall and live forever…the same goes for our Chapter. Thank you…
2001 – In our first year, Julie Harpst, Assistant Director and I, Maureen Siekierski, experience a truly unprecedented year. The events of September 11th changed our organization and our chapter forever. The horrific attack on our nation saw blood donors arriving at our chapter in record numbers. Members of our community volunteered to help in any way they could and financial donors ensured that our work would be done in New York City, Washington D.C., and elsewhere.
Our disaster workers were activated immediately and Challis Dietz and Sue Beamer were ready to leave by that afternoon. We are so proud of all our disaster workers who supported the operation for several months.
“Preparing for the Unexpected”: We have now added new disaster education pieces to our community education. Our Chapter reviewed our preparedness following September 11th and worked very hard to position ourselves to better serve our community. Thanks to a grant from the Grigg Lewis Foundation, our chapter purchased a generator, additional cots and blankets, protective clothing for our disaster team, and communication equipment.
We ended the year 2001 a stronger and wiser chapter.
2001-2002
Disaster- This year began by once again testing our disaster preparedness and response. In early February we were faced with an ice storm and power outage that blanketed our area. We opened shelters at So. Lockport Fire Hall and Newfane High School.
Thanks to the generosity of Jack and Marcia Tillotson, the Exchange Club of Lockport, and the Middleport Fire Department, we purchased a disaster trailer. All supplies and equipment needed to open a shelter are stored in the trailer for rapid response. We continue to look for ways to better serve our community.
World events have made it necessary for us to focus on preparing our community for unexpected events and the possibility of war. We continually disseminate material assisting families with a disaster plan and a checklist of supplies needed for a disaster kit. Recently four new Armed Forces caseworkers were trained to assist military families in crisis.
Blood- The chapter entered into a signed agreement with the New York-Penn Blood Region. The agreement is a collaborative effort to improve collections and provide the chapter with more input. Unfortunately, blood collections have dropped nationwide. We continue to work within our community and with New York-Penn to reverse this shortfall.
Health & Safety- Governor Pataki signed a law this year mandating that every school in New York State be equipped with an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) and appropriate staff trained in its use. Our chapter has seen a significant increase in CPR/AED training due to this and other initiatives.
Fundraising- Due in part to shutdowns, downsizing and retirements in our local workforce, our United Way allocation has been reduced by 19%. Fundraising has become a necessity for our chapter. We continue with our very successful chicken barbecues but are now looking for additional avenues of raising money in this difficult economic climate.
2003-2004
Disaster – In November, we had an ice storm with power outages throughout our area. Middleport was especially hard hit. We opened a shelter at the Middleport Fire hall and provided shelter and food until the power was restored the next day.
Blood – We were honored to receive the Partnership Award from New York-Penn this year. This award is given to the chapter within the region that demonstrates cooperative work between the chapter and the blood region. Blood collections reached 3330 this year, the highest number in several years.
Fundraising – We continue to have our three chicken barbecues each year with great success. We have sold as many as 1500 dinners in slightly more than 2 ½ hours. We receive calls from many organizations asking our secret. In addition to the barbecues, we held two Shania Twin concerts this year netting over $10,000.
2004-2005
Disaster – During a 6 week timeframe in August and September 2004, the state of Florida was hit by 4 devastating hurricanes. Five of our disaster volunteers were deployed immediately, a few to return to Florida multiple times over the next few months. Our executive director spent 4 weeks assisting disaster victims during September. Once again this year, we participated in Strategic National Stockpile exercises and drills with the Niagara County Health Department and Office of Emergency Management. To ensure preparedness, it has become essential that we participate in wide-scale exercises to test our human and material resource capacity. In the post 9/11 era, we have assumed the primary responsibility for training our community in disaster preparedness. Nationally developed courses and presentations have been added to our menu of training offerings. This year, 1059 people attended at least one training on disaster preparedness. On December 26, 2004, Southeast Asia experienced a devastating earthquake followed by a catastrophic tsunami. Since this occurred during Christmas vacation, many local school children were aware of this situation, because they had been watching it on television during vacation. When they returned to school, many had ideas of how to raise money. This began very creative events within our schools thanks to the support of the school staff and administrators.
Armed Forces Emergency Services – While our military caseload is up, we have noticed a difference in the way communication is handled between the serviceman and his or her family back home. Frequently, by the time we send our emergency message through the communication network, the serviceman already is aware of the contents of the message. The military has gone high tech since the gulf war in 1992-93. Servicemen now are frequently equipped with satellite phones and/or internet capability making communication with their family much easier than at any other time of war or conflict. In March 2005, we hosted a military reception for the families of men and women currently deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan – or anywhere else far from home. Sen. Maziarz helped support this event and attended and spoke with the families present. We had a mental health professional meet with the children separately. We also had servicemen and women who had already been deployed come and speak with the families. There developed a bond between the attendees who had many of the same concerns. The families were very appreciative of the afternoon spent with those who truly understand what they are going through.
Blood – Blood collections continue to grow, resulting in 3374 donations this year.
2005-2006
Disaster – August 2005 brought the most devastating natural disaster ever to hit the United States and the Red Cross – Hurricane Katrina. Our organization was challenged in many ways. Human resources were stretched to the limit as we struggled to answer the needs here at home while we were expected to recruit and train new volunteers for almost immediate deployment. All of our trained disaster workers assisted at least once during the Katrina recovery effort. Some were assisting in Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas multiple times and were away from their families for months in some cases. As always, this community immediately responded. First Niagara Bank made it possible for their customers across the state to make contributions at any First Niagara Branch. First Niagara also sponsored a fundraising event at the Palace Theater with a concert and basket raffle. The result of their hard work and commitment to assist the victims of this horrific disaster was the presentation of a check to our executive director in the amount of $95,925.23. This was a remarkable accomplishment only possible through many hours of hard work. By the time we closed out this fundraising campaign for Hurricane Katrina, we had processed over $196,000 in our office and forwarded it to National Headquarters for what turned out to be the most comprehensive disaster relief effort to date. Once again, we participated in June in a Strategic National Stockpile drill with the Niagara County Health Department. Each time we exercise we become better at our disaster response skills.
Blood – Our chapter was presented the Outstanding Sponsor Award from the New York-Penn Blood Region. We continue to improve our collaborative efforts with the blood region and our success lies in an increase in blood donations.
2006-2007
Disaster –We were blessed with a quiet hurricane season this year. After Florida 2 years ago and Katrina last year, we all breathed a sigh of relief. We continued to participate in drills with the Niagara County Health Department and the Office of Emergency Management. That training paid off when we were called into action on the evening of October 12 for what became known as the “October Storm”. Following several inches of heavy, wet snow, the power went out in Lockport and the areas to the south and southeast in our jurisdiction. We opened a shelter at Rapids Fire Hall for 2 nights and supported shelters in Wolcottsville, Middleport and the Salvation Army. When the shelter population dwindled, we transitioned back to our office at 637 Davison Road where we functioned as a warming center and fixed feeding site, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner for the next four days. Our disaster relief activities became a part of a larger operation when we became a part of the Western New York grouping to include Eastern Niagara County Chapter, Genesee County Chapter, Orleans County and Erie County. Together be became DR#080-07 NW NY Storm. This is the first time our chapter has ever been a part of a National Disaster Relief Operation. It was very interesting seeing the transition from a local event to a National. We activated all of our trained disaster staff and everyone appreciated the experience they got while working this event. Starpoint Central School District was successful in receiving a grant and asked that we present age-appropriate disaster education the all students. Participants received information and a disaster safety tube during various presentations. Over 2600 students participated.
Blood – We received the Chapter/Blood Services Partnership Award from New York-Penn. This award is given to a chapter who demonstrates outstanding efforts to promote and enhance the partnership with American Red Cross Blood Services and New York-Penn Region.
Health & Safety – A Certificate of Merit was awarded to Thomas Mangine at our Annual Meeting at the Holiday in Lockport October 23, 2006. Thomas was awarded this prestigious certificate for his lifesaving action in pulling a 2 year old child from a pool and performing CPR until the ambulance crew arrived. Senator Maziarz was in attendance and also presented Thomas with a proclamation and award. Thomas was trained in CPR at Wyndham Lawn Home for Children where he works. He was joined that evening by some of his co-workers who shared in the celebration.
Fundraising – We continue with our chicken barbecues three times a year and have added One-Eyed Jacks pulled pork barbecues also three times per year. In addition, we sponsored a concert starring the “Crooners” at the Taylor Theater in February. We continue to struggle with fundraising ideas that are unique and profitable. As our United Way dollars continue to decline, it is imperative that we continue to pursue new fundraising opportunities.
