14th Annual Red Cross Bash Set | News

BUFFALO, NY - The 14^th annual Red Cross Bash takes place tonight at the organization's Delaware Avenue campus Downtown.

This event is a major fundraiser which supports the efforts of the Greater Buffalo Chapter of the American Red Cross.  This year their fundraising goal is $400,000.  The money will be used to help their mission of preventing, preparing for and responding to disasters in Erie and Niagara Counties.

"Vouchers for temporary housing, for food, for clothing.  Just to try to get them back on their feet a little bit," said Greater Buffalo Red Cross Communications Coordinator Jay Bonafede.

"It's important that people do know that we're here and we're not a government organization, so we rely on the generosity of the public in order to provide those services."

In the past year the Buffalo Chapter of the American Red Cross provided assistance to 974 residents in Erie and Niagara Counties, most after their lives were disrupted by fire or other local disasters.  In addition, they trained some 3,500 people in disaster preparedness programs and helped some 166 members of the armed forces get in touch with their families during emergency situations back home.

"People love the party, but people love being connected to the Red Cross.  They say it's the city of good neighbors and we see it all the time," said Bonafede.  "Something like this is an opportunity for people and businesses to get involved while they're having a good time."

The event kicks off tonight at 8pm. Tickets are still available and can be purchased by contacting the Buffalo Red Cross.

Organizers say the best way to purchase your tickets is to stop by their Delaware Avenue offices.  They're located at 786 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14209.  Their phone number is (716) 886-7500.