On May 28, 10 Red Cross staff members brought the work of the Red Cross to 76 third graders at Swallow Elementary in Hartland. The students visited stations filled with interactive activities and information.

The day was designed to teach students about Red Cross services offered after a disaster strikes and what it is like to be affected by a disaster. Students were able to try on the Disaster Action Team gear that volunteers wear when responding to fires more than 500 times a year. Volunteers also showed the kids how Red Cross feeds thousands of emergency responders and disaster victims every year from the Emergency Response Vehicle, and gave them information about shelters and more about what Red Cross volunteers do.

By visiting the stations, students were able to experience the effects of a disaster and gain an understanding of what Red Cross volunteers do when a flood or hurricane hits their area. In return, the students gave Red Cross 15 assembled comfort kits full of supplies that people need after a disaster---toothpaste, toothbrush, shampoo and other supplies.

Basic supplies and a basic lesson. Now Swallow Elementary students understand what many of their fellow neighbors have experienced ---occurrences that many adults never think about.

The American Red Cross in Southeastern Wisconsin relies on donations of time and money so they can provide relief to victims of disasters and help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies in Dodge, Kenosha, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Walworth and Waukesha counties. To donate your time, please visit our Volunteer page. Financial donations can be made online through our secure contribution site.