In 2006, when about two-thirds of Schuylkill Haven Borough was underwater, the American Red Cross was there immediately and afterward to help the residents.

“When something like that happens, it’s neighbor helping neighbor, and the Red Cross was the neighbor that came,” said Schuylkill County Commissioner Gary Hess. “They are the silent guardian angels — I’ve seen it firsthand.”

March is American Red Cross month, and during a meeting Wednesday the Schuylkill County Commissioners recognized the organization with a proclamation. The Tri-County Chapter of the American Red Cross locally includes Berks, Chester and Schuylkill counties.

During 2019, 360 local volunteers helped 700 people affected by more than 120 disasters, such as home fires.

The Tri-County Chapter helped by responding to needs such as food, lodging and support during recovery.

And that’s not all. The Tri-County Chapter has also:

• Helped install more than 3,000 free smoke alarms.

• Trained more than 17,000 people in lifesaving skills such as first aid and CPR.

• Assisted more than 1,000 military members, veterans and their families.

• Collected nearly 25,000 blood donations.

“(The American Red Cross) are the ones who bring sunshine during the hard times,” Commissioners’ Chairman George Halcovage said. “We recognize them for their many accomplishments and encourage residents of Schuylkill County to get involved and support them.”