Media Contact: Jeff Hall
617-999-3319 | jeff.hall@redcross.org
Gloucester, MA. March 19, 2026
For Immediate Release:
Neighbors help neighbors: Red Cross, TownGreen partner on disaster volunteer initiative
Free training teaches valuable skills, connects to emergency management agencies
GLOUCESTER, Mass. (March 19) — The American Red Cross and TownGreen are inviting Cape Ann residents to help make their own community more resilient to natural disasters. TownGreen, the Red Cross Northeastern Massachusetts chapter, and the City of Gloucester Office of Emergency Management are partnering to build a local volunteer response team for the Cape Ann area.
The initiative, Cape Ann Responds, will launch with a free two-hour community session on Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at the Sawyer Free Library Community Room in Gloucester.
“Cape Ann communities have a proud tradition of stepping up for one another,” says Maureen Aylward-Bover, TownGreen Executive Director. “This effort provides residents with the tools, training, and support they need to make a meaningful impact during local emergencies.”
What Volunteers Will Gain
- An accessible, inspiring introduction to disaster response volunteering
- An overview of hands-on roles available during local disasters—from shelter ambassadors to feeding and emergency supply distribution
- Training in core Red Cross humanitarian principles and compassionate community support
- Opportunities to join both the Red Cross and TownGreen volunteer networks for year-round service
- A clear, supportive pathway to additional training and deeper involvement for those who wish to continue
Why It Matters
From winter storms and coastal flooding to localized emergencies, Cape Ann’s residents are often the first to help their neighbors. This new volunteer team aims to strengthen that local capacity. No previous experience is required—just a willingness to show up and help.
“Whether it’s guiding families to safety during a storm or being a familiar, reassuring presence after a flood, volunteers make a real difference,” says Kyle McWilliam-Lopez, Red Cross Northeast Executive Director. “Cape Ann welcomes more people who are ready to step in.”
Cape Ann Responds: Community Volunteer Information Session
📅 Saturday, April 18, 2026
🕥 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM
📍 Sawyer Free Library, Community Room, Gloucester, MA
💲 Free and open to all Cape Ann residents
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/MA or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media: @RedCrossMA on Instagram and X, Red Cross of Massachusetts on Facebook and LinkedIn, @AmericanRedCross on TikTok.
