02-22-2012 – Red Cross Donations           

When Battalion Chief Ben Heape volunteered to be a “Red Cross Hero for Fire Victims”, he had no idea the project would be as successful as it turned out. The success was made possible by the Colleton County Students and the partnership of the School District. Heape met with School Officials in late 2011 to pitch the idea of having the students participate in the fund raising efforts. Superintendent Leila Williams embraced the idea having schools collect funds and allowing the students to buy a dress down day, so they did not have to wear a school uniform for the day. Between the schools participation and several boot drives conducted by firefighters, the effort raised close to $9,500, almost twice the expected amount. In the five county region, the entire Red Cross project exceed anticipated amounts overall netting more than $50,000 over the $175,000 goal.  

All of the funds collected are used to assist families following a house fire. The Red Cross assisted over 60 families in Colleton County last year, many of whom had no insurance. The Red Cross is a blessing to many families who have nowhere else to turn, aiding them in the first few days following the fire, until they can get back on their feet. The Red Cross estimates it costs around $1,200 to assist a family of four for the first two days following a fire.

The Red Cross presented a plaque to Superintendant Williams at the Principal meeting Wednesday 22-February.