The Red Cross Hero Care Center: United together, helping those in need
Military families faced numerous challenges over the past year. Through it all, the American Red Cross Service to the Armed Forces was there to help in ways big and small by providing relief and resources to service members, veterans their families, and caregivers.
After 25 years as a military spouse, Red Cross volunteer Susana Rendón knows the ins and out of military life up close and personal and can anticipate the unforeseen hurdles along the way. She says that the challenges are great for military families but the Red Cross is there to help.
Rendón’s new home at Ft. Knox and used this time to channel her energy into volunteering with the Red Cross, finding passion by helping at the Warrior Warehouse, a facility that allows military families to shop at no cost for needed items including clothing, furniture, baby items, and other key necessities. She says the Warrior Warehouse can make all the difference for many families, particularly younger parents who are often most in need or maybe juggling their spouse’s deployment with small children and without community support.
In this role, she said she’s most proud of the assistance she and her colleagues provided a veteran named Carlito, who was homeless and struggling to care for his 80-year-old mother. After receiving housing assistance in Louisville, the Warrior Warehouse was able to furnish his new two-bedroom apartment with gently used items donated from the Ft. Knox community. Rendon says that delivering the items and setting them up in Carlito’s new home meant so much to her.
“He and his mother were so humble and appreciative. The work was helping us too. Volunteering for the Red Cross is amazing for the mind and soul,” she said.
“People don’t have to try and figure out everything on their own. Someone is always there to pick them up at their darkest hours and lend a hand,” she said.
Rendón’s service was recently recognized by Army officials when she was named the 2022 South Central Kentucky Red Cross Volunteer of the Year at Fort Knox. During the past year, she volunteered over 1,000 hours. Fort Knox Garrison Commander Col. Lance O’Bryan lauded her service and thanked her for her commitment.
“Your steadfast professionalism has left an enduring impact on the Soldiers, civilians, and Families of our community,” O’Bryan said. “Thank you for all you do.”
Rendón says that her work with the Red Cross has been a gift and provides the purpose she needs in everyday life. “Helping military families helped me mentally, physically, and socially,” she said.
She says that these personal stories — of Carlito and the others — stick with her during challenging times. “Knowing that you’re able to help people in need is what it is all about. It gives you a great sense of accomplishment,” she said.
The American Red Cross Hero Care Center is available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. To speak to a Red Cross Emergency Communications Specialist call 1-877-272-7337.
Sources:
- https://youtu.be/HR6QWkHblnc
- https://www.redcross.org/about-us/news-and-events/news/2022/red-cross-volunteer-finds-purpose-helping-military-community.html
- https://www.redcross.org/about-us/news-and-events/news/2022/service-to-the-armed-forces-united-helping-those-in-need.html
- https://www.redcross.org/get-help/military-families/emergency-communication.html
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