Through its congressional charter, the Red Cross is mandated to provide emergency communication between the members of the armed forces and their families. Thus, the Chapter provides an around-the-clock, around-the-world network that allows service members to stay in touch with their families during births, deaths, and serious illness. In some situations, emergency financial assistance, referral and counseling, and other social services may be provided to members of the active military.

The Red Cross also provides these same services to the Community Based Military—Guard, Reserve, Recruiters, ROTC, Veterans and their family. We encourage all know how to reach us before the emergency occurs and have basic information readily available.

To reach a case worker to initiate an emergency message, call the chapter (843) 764-2323 and follow the voice prompts for ‘Emergency Assistance to Military dial “1” or you may reach a caseworker by calling 1-800-951-5600.

When calling the Red Cross to send an emergency message to a family member, it is helpful to have the following information:

Service member’s:

• Full Name
• Rank/Rating
• Branch of Service
• Social Security Number
• Military Address
• Information about the deployed unit and the home base unit (for deployed service members only)

Family members will also need contact information so the Red Cross can verify information before sending the message to the service member. for example: name of doctor and phone number where he can be reached for a statement of illness and prognosis or the name and phone number of funeral home in the event of death. Remember under current health privacy information you must give the medical authorities permission to release medical information to Red Cross. If not done in advance, this may delay the verification process and message delivery.

The Carolina Lowcountry Chapter continues the long history of service to military personnel and their families. Our staff welcomes opportunity to speak to your group about our service to military and the families. Please contact the chapter at 764 2323 ext 372 if you would like more information or would like to volunteer in this line of service.

This service is free to services families through the generosity of our financial donors supporting the programs of the Carolina Lowcountry Chapter.

For more information on the American Red Cross’ services to military members and their families Click Here.

United States Department of Defense Article on Red Cross support of US troops.