Miller Paint and the American Red Cross have teamed up on a donation campaign in all 55 Miller Paint stores throughout the month of November. The Join in the Recovery campaign will raise funds to assist the Red Cross in supporting community members affected by the recent wildfires in Oregon and Washington. Customers will be encouraged to add $1 or more to their purchase at checkout to go toward the cause.
“The American Red Cross has mobilized wildfire response efforts across multiple states, including Oregon and Washington, helping the thousands of people whose lives have been changed forever due to the fires,” said Jason Palumbis, Miller Paint CEO and President. “As we head into the holidays, we think about the importance of home, especially during the pandemic. We believe it is our responsibility to assist the Red Cross in helping these families and members of our community, and we hope many of our customers will join in the recovery.”
The funds raised will help trained Red Cross volunteer disaster teams continue to work around the clock with ongoing recovery efforts, including providing meals and shelter to those impacted, which currently averages around 1,500 Northwest individuals per night. The Red Cross continues to shelter families in hotels, connect victims with mental health professionals, and collaborate with state and federal agencies as they work to find sustainable long-term housing. All donations collected at Miller Paint locations will be split 50/50 between Oregon and Washington wildfire response funds.
“The 2020 wildfire season has proven to be one of the worst on record. Since August, fires have burned millions of acres across the Northwest, forcing thousands of people to evacuate their homes,” said Wes Breazeale, Corporate Partnerships and Major Gifts with the American Red Cross, Cascades Region. “Even though some of these fires have been contained, the devastation still exists for families who lost everything. We are incredibly grateful to Miller Paint for working with us to raise funds that will make a difference in the lives of so many.”
According to the Red Cross, it’s never too late to start preparing for a disaster. The nonprofit offers an emergency app that can help keep community members safe with preparedness tips, real-time alerts, shelter locations and safety advice on wildfires. The app can be downloaded for free by searching for ‘American Red Cross’ in app stores or at redcross.org/apps. During a disaster, those who do not have access to a computer or smartphone can call 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767) to be directed to an evacuation center and provided with nearby sheltering options.
About Miller Paint
Manufactured in Portland, Oregon, since 1890, Miller Paint is celebrating its 130th year in business in 2020. Miller Paint is an employee-owned company with 55 stores throughout Oregon, Washington and Idaho. Miller Paint products are specifically formulated for the Northwest climate and are known for outstanding quality and durability. The company has adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic to offer virtual color consultations, curbside pickup and home delivery.
About American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission.