FPS staff report
June 4, 2012

The American Red Cross links members of the U.S. Armed Forces with their families here at home, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  In times of crisis, the Red Cross quickly sends emergency communications to deployed service members on behalf of their family.  The Muskingum Lakes chapter is taking its military connection one step further by helping the family members of deployed service members here at home.

With many local families dealing with the stress and emotions that come along with the deployment of a loved one or a returning soldier faced with reintegrating into public life, the chapter realized the importance of building a solid foundation of support for the families of Carroll, Harrison and Tuscarawas counties. 

In an effort to help military families build a strong support system, the local Red Cross has developed a military family connections group which will meet the 2nd Monday of each month. The first meeting will be Monday, June 11 at 7 p.m. at Muskingum Lakes Chapter office located at 1451 4th St. NW, New Philadelphia. 

“This group will be participant led with topics chosen by the group member themselves,” said Chad Conrad, chapter executive director.  “The main goal of our military program is to provide military families with the skills they need to help one another in order to build a strong support system.”

The connection group will meet in a relaxed, confidential environment where mothers, wives, sisters, fathers and service personnel can meet to support each other and gain valuable information on many local resources to develop a strong support system. 

Conrad noted that free childcare will be provided for families during the group time, pre-registration is not needed and there is no cost to attend.

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies more than 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. 

For more information on this group or other Red Cross programs and services contact 330-343-8633.

The Free Press Standard invites you to post your thoughts on the story in the box below.

• However, before you post, please read these few basic rules.
• Be appropriate. Posts with obscene, explicit, sexist or racist language will be deleted.
• Be polite. Posts containing personal attacks, insults, or threats will be deleted.
• Be honest. Potentially libelous statements will be deleted.
• Don't 'spam'. Posts advertising or promoting commercial products will be deleted.
• Help monitor your community. Click "Report Abuse" on any entry that violates these guidelines.
• This is your forum, with your opinions.

These posts do not reflect the views of the The Free Press Standard or its employees.