The South Charleston City Council on a motion approved a proclamation recognizing May 8 as World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day and authorized a $5,000 contribution to the American Red Cross Central Appalachian region.

Trent read the proclamation into the record, noting the Red Cross’s services and the organization’s humanitarian history. The council moved and seconded approval of the proclamation; the motion passed on a voice vote.

Erica, identified in the transcript as an American Red Cross representative, thanked the council and highlighted local volunteer involvement. Erica said, "We have roughly 46 blood drives in a year in this city," and noted the chapter’s five lines of service, including disaster sheltering, blood collection and support for military families. She also told the council the chapter is planning a blood drive in South Charleston on May 8 at the Holiday Inn and an alternate drive on May 30.

The transcript also records that Chief White and Councilwoman Kathleen Walker serve as volunteers with the American Red Cross; the city presented a financial contribution at the meeting. The Red Cross representative said the chapter and city will continue collaboration on home fire-safety efforts, including a planned fall door-to-door smoke-alarm campaign.

The proclamation and the $5,000 contribution were approved during the petitions and communications portion of the agenda; the transcript does not show any dissent or amendment to the measure.