The American Red Cross of Central Midwest Georgia has been stationed in Troup County for 100 years, officially reaching the century mark last year.

The nonprofit is still in the midst of its 100th year and continues to help people who are displaced by emergencies that are often impossible to prepare for. Volunteers from the Red Cross are there, often in the worst moment of someone else’s life.

While a person is grieving, the volunteer is trying to take care of things they haven’t had a chance to think about, such as housing, clothing and other essential needs.

Even after a displaced family has been taken care of, someone will follow up to ask how they’re managing and to assess their needs.

The Red Cross sets up shelters when there’s an incoming storm or other potential hazard. Last week many of the volunteers were checking in to see if they needed to do anything because of the snow.

It’s hard to imagine how many families the Red Cross has helped over that time in Troup County, and many others will receive assistance in the future. The Red Cross, a partner agency with the United Way of West of West Georgia, could always use extra help too. If you want to volunteer or just to donate, there are many ways to give back.

For more information, visit www.redcross.org.