A RIVERLAND Red Cross branch is calling on the community to get involved to keep it alive and ensure its long-term viability.
The Barmera Red Cross is facing the possibility of heading into recess due to a decline in membership numbers and with the current president and secretary looking to step down.
Barmera Red Cross president Jeanette Staehr said the branch was “feeling its age”.
“Times have changed – working women are time-poor these days and membership has declined for day time meetings,” she said.
“Changes to the law concerning children, like Girl Guides helping, has made door knocking for Red Cross Calling impossible because they had to have an adult with them.
“Therefore, fundraising has depended on a loyal group of members and friends of Barmera Red Cross.”
Ms Staehr said the Red Cross had made significant contributions to the community over her more than two decades with the group.
“We volunteered at the blood bank and attended regional conferences… where we learned how important our contributions were,” she said.
“We undertook disaster training and members have been volunteers in recovery work after several storm and bushfire disasters.”
Ms Staehr also said the group had played a significant role in helping save the Barmera Hospital when it was slated for closure in 2004.
Those interested in getting involved with the Barmera Red Cross or attending its annual general meeting on July 16 can contact Jeanette Staehr on 0428 882 551.