The American Red Cross chose Through the Looking Glass as one of six national disability organizations with which it will collaborate in order " to enhance the involvement and participation of persons with disabilities in American Red Cross programs and services."

Through the Looking Glass has currently been reviewing the Red Cross' document "Disaster Preparedness for People with Disabilities." Please, see the Red Cross' Information for People with Special Needs to view this document as well as other helpful information for you and your family.

Please check out these two announcements from Marlee Matlin.

• In Get Prepared, Marlee Mailin reminds everyone to take action to prepare themselves for emergencies and disasters.


• In Help Your Community, Marlee Matlin reminds everyone that becoming a Red Cross disaster relief volunteer, you can help ensure that people affected by disaster, including those with disabilities, get the help they need from people who understand. For instance, Sign Language interpreters can help disaster relief clients who are deaf or hard of hearing by pairing up with Red Cross workers.

The American Red Cross announces its Safe and Well Website. The Safe and Well Website is an internet-based tool that families can integrate into their family communications plan. The Red Cross will use it to help disaster victims communicate from inside the disaster-affected areas to loved ones outside. People within a disaster area can register themselves as "safe and well" by selecting and posting standard messages for friends and family that indicate they are safe and well at a shelter, home or hotel, and will make contact when they are able. Concerned family members who know the person's phone number (home, cell or work) or a complete home address can search for the messages posted by those who self-register.