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‘ARC involved in COVID-19 efforts’
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Posted on Apr 16 2020
The American Red Cross-NMI Chapter assured yesterday that it has been actively involved with the COVID-19 response over the past several weeks by providing support to front-line workers and working closely with CNMI government partners and other non-profit organizations.
“We’ve given out more than 3,500 hand sanitizers to [Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services], [Department of Community and Cultural Affairs], Karidat [Social Services], Center for Living Independently, [Nutrition Assistance Program], Homeland Security and Emergency Management, the Ports Police, and others,” said J.D. Tenorio, Red Cross Disaster Program manager.
In addition, the Red Cross has provided hundreds of hygiene supplies, including toothpaste, soap, toothbrushes, and shampoo, to those quarantined at Kanoa Resort and Pacific Islands Club Saipan.
“COVID-19 is impacting our entire community as well as the way in which Red Cross delivers programs here and around the nation. Despite these challenges we continue to collect lifesaving blood in the mainland for our mothers giving birth, cancer patients, and many others with critical needs at CHCC,” said John Hirsh, executive director of the CNMI chapter of the Red Cross.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has asked the Red Cross to help identify prospective plasma donors who are fully recovered from COVID-19. Recovered patients have antibodies in their plasma that can attack the virus, and this FDA-funded effort is evaluating this convalescent plasma as a treatment for patients who are seriously ill with COVID-19.
Whether its relief and comfort after disasters, critical blood and blood products for the Commonwealth Health Center, emergency assistance to military members and their families, or support for worldwide response efforts of the global Red Cross network, the American Red Cross and its NMI Chapter remain committed to delivering ongoing support for those we serve, every day. For more information about the Red Cross call 234-3459 or www.redcross.org/nmi. (PR)
