Lacey supports humanitarian missions in American Red Cross Month

The Lacey City Council on Thursday urged the public to reach out and support humanitarian missions as it proclaimed March 2022 as American Red Cross (ARC) Month.

Mayor Andy Ryder said "humanitarian spirit" is part of the foundation of Lacey's community, as exemplified by volunteers and donors of ARC.

"When people are in their darkest hour, you hope you see some sort of light, and the Red Cross has been providing that light for a very long time," Ryder said.

Ryder also encouraged people to participate in blood donation drives in Lacey. "Now's the time to give blood and support your American Red Cross," Ryder said. "It's more important than ever."

The Council's proclamation highlighted ARC's efforts in sponsoring the Heroes Cafe events at the Lacey Veterans Services Hub, the facility on Sixth Avenue that provides "vital resources for veterans and active-duty military throughout Thurston County."

The proclamation also honored the volunteers' work to prevent and alleviate human suffering as a vital factor in strengthening the community's resilience.

Red Cross South Puget Sound Executive Director Daniel Wirth and board member Justin Mears, a resident of Lacey, attended the proclamation ceremony.

Wirth and Mears both acknowledge Lacey's participation in proclaiming ARC month. Mears credited all the accomplishments of their organizations to the local community's volunteerism and willingness to participate in blood donation drives.

"Being willing to make that proclamation and provide some exposure to our local chapter is really huge for us here," Mears said.

In his proclamation of ARC month, President Joe Biden also encouraged the public to answer ARC's call to donate blood and serve communities in need.