“When you’re down and troubled and you need a helping hand … you’ve got a friend.” This phrase made famous by North Carolina singer songwriter, James Taylor expresses the support the Red Cross gives every day to people all over our great nation. Now you have an opportunity to assist in this great work while having a fabulous time by joining us for the American Red Cross Highlands Chapter 10th Annual Red and White Gala on Thursday, Nov. 14. The Red and White Gala will highlight more than 75 wines, hors d’oeuvres prepared by award-winning chefs and a silent auction featuring many one-of-a-kind items. The event is hosted by the Holiday Inn Fayetteville – Bordeaux, Mutual Distributing Company and US Food Service.

The American Red Cross is a charitable organization that depends on your generosity to help prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies. Funds raised during the Gala will provide food, shelter and clothing to those who are impacted by disaster.

Susan Mills, Chairman of the Board of Directors for the American Red Cross Highlands Chapter said, “The Highlands Chapter receives no money from the state or federal government. We are able to continue our outstanding service because of donations from individuals and businesses locally. For every dollar we receive, 92 cents goes back out to those that need it most. The Red and White Gala is our biggest fundraiser. All of the food, wine and the Holiday Inn Bordeaux facilities are donated. The chefs donate their time and talents to make this event one of the biggest and best in the area. We will have outstanding food, wine and a silent auction. Some of the items that we have had in the past included an African Safari, jewelry, vacations, airline tickets, gift certificates to local dining establishments, golf course gift certificates and even a pie a month. So, get a jump-start on the holidays and shop with Red Cross and have some fun at the 10th Annual Red and White Gala.”

The Red Cross is most well-known for its disaster relief efforts and blood drives, however, the local Highlands chapter also provides volunteer training in disaster preparedness, CPR training and services to our armed forces to include assistance with deployments, welcome home and “Holiday Mail for Heroes.” Each year, they provide an average of 25,000 emergency communications and other services to members of our military and their families and reach more than 4,780 people through our “Get to Know Us Before You Need Us” outreach program. The Highlands Chapter is the direct line of communication between military personnel and their families when an emergency strikes. Red Cross board member and local surgeon, Dr. F. Andrew Morfesis said “None of this great work could be accomplished without our volunteers.”

So why attend the Red and White Gala? To have a great time with friends and neighbors while enjoying food and drinks as well as having the opportunity to bid on wonderful silent auction offerings donated by local restaurants, theaters, jewelers and much, much more.

You may purchase tickets in advance for $45 by contacting the Highlands Chapter at 910.867.8151 ext. 25. Tickets will be available at the door the day of the event for $50.

Photo: The Red Cross Wine Gala offers a night of good food,  wine tasting and fun, all for a great cause.