March is Red Cross Month, and the American Red Cross is asking everyone to help people in need by supporting the lifesaving services it provides.

“Red Cross Month is a great time for people to support our mission,” said Lynwood Roberson, regional executive for the American Red Cross in Eastern North Carolina. “Their kindness will enable us to continue our work, both here at home and across the globe.”

The Red Cross responds to nearly 70,000 disasters a year in the United States, providing shelter, food, emotional support and other necessities to those affected.

In the Rocky Mount-Wilson area, the Frederick E. Turnage Chapter responded to 157 emergencies, assisted 450 military families and trained 2,088 people in lifesaving skills. And Eastern North Carolina residents donated 139,000 units of blood.

“Please remember those who need our help and support the Red Cross by making a donation, becoming a volunteer, taking a class or giving blood,” Roberson said.

The Turnage Chapter has a number of activities planned for Red Cross Month, including a Heroes kickoff banquet March 1 at Wilson Country Club and a Heroes Banquet March 29 at Rose Hill Plantation near Nashville. Tickets to these events are available from the Red Cross offices in Rocky Mount and Wilson.