Michelle (l- r) Leah, Todd Jr., and Todd Collins were displaced from their home after a fire on Dec. 10. The Red Cross provided them with lodging, food, clothing and referrals to partner agencies. "I can't tell you how grateful we are to the Red Cross," Todd Collins said. The American Red Cross of Central South Carolina recently received a $10,000 grant from the Allstate Foundation for use towards its Local Disaster Relief Fund. The monies will be used to purchase comfort kits, blankets, cots, clean- up kits, and also to provide direct financial assistance to disaster victims.

The American Red Cross of Central South Carolina responds to approximately one disaster every 17 hours and serves more than 900,000 people in its 10- county jurisdiction.

"The Allstate Foundation has made a commitment to help the American Red Cross of Central South Carolina better serve our neighbors in need," said Libby Anne Inabinet, chief development officer of the American Red Cross of Central South Carolina, "The grant will help us stand ready to provide hope, comfort, and support when a disaster strikes. The American Red Cross of Central South Carolina thanks The Allstate Foundation for its endless support."

The American Red Cross helps people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies. An average of 89 cents of every dollar the Red Cross spends is invested in humanitarian services and programs. The Red Cross is not a government agency. It relies on donations of time, money, and blood to do its work.

To make a donation, call 803-540-1225, donate online at centralscredcross.org, mail a check to American Red Cross P.O. Box 91, Columbia, SC 29201, or email InabinetLib@ usa.redcross.org.