“The total amount of relief funds collected in the various cities could not be accurately ascertained up to the time of my departure from Michigan, November 1, but was approximately $50,000, including $5,000 given through the State Branch of the Red Cross. This, with the contributions of provisions, clothing, lumber, etc., it is hoped will be enough to carry the work through to completion. In the event that it does not suffice to purchase seed grain for the farmers next spring, it is believed a small additional fund may be obtained by an appeal to the public, or perhaps through an appropriation by the State Legislature.”
REPORT OF FOREST FIRE RELIEF WORK
BY R. M. DYAR
Secretary, Michigan Red Cross Branch
November 11, 1908.
Referring to the work done by the Michigan Branch of the American National Red Cross towards raising funds and the handling of contributions for the fire sufferers in northern Michigan, I beg to report results accomplished as follows:
Total amount of cash contributions received to date has been $4,432. Regarding the handling of clothes, supplies, etc., I beg to give you herewith a copy of the report presented by Mrs. R. McD. Campau, who had charge of the receiving and forwarding of all supplies.
“From October 19th to and including October 26th, a ‘Relief Station’ was opened in the Owen Building, in a room donated for that purpose. During that time many contributions of clothing, furniture and some money were received. Many merchants contributed largely and also assisted in collecting individual contributions, there being five hundred and seventy requests by telephone to call for donations. It was impossible to keep account of all these donations, as they came in in such quantities and many had no names attached. Fifteen people worked every day during the week from eight in the morning till five in the afternoon, opening packages, sorting, packing, marking and shipping boxes. Each box was marked with the contents. There being one hundred and sixteen in all, a great deal of furniture and $210.75 sent from the Red Cross Relief Station to the fire sufferers in northern Michigan.”
I can report that a sufficient amount of clothing and other household articles has been forwarded to the district to provide for the needs of all the fire sufferers, and with the money raised by the Citizens’ Committee of Detroit and other cities of the State, together with the amount raised by the Michigan Branch of the Red Cross, sufficient food and fodder for the cattle and horses can be provided to take care of all requirements up to the middle of the winter. When the State Legislature meets they will, no doubt, provide the extra funds that may be needed.