Red Cross sells holiday gift baskets

The Monroe County chapter of the American Red Cross is bringing holiday cheer once again – in the form of a gift basket.

The American Red Cross Holiday gift baskets are now on sale through Dec. 22.  
Sue Gulley, executive director of the Monroe County Red Cross, said the tradition of selling baskets dates back to at least 1991.

“We’re not aware of any other Indiana chapters that have the gift baskets, but we know Red Cross chapters do sell emergency or first aid kits or Red Cross apparel during the holiday season,” Gulley said.

These baskets are not just bringing joy to those who receive them. The proceeds go to all programs in the American Red Cross, including disaster response, emergency preparation and helping military members and their families.

Bloomington’s own Dillman Farm supplies the baskets for the American Red Cross. The Monroe County chapter chose Dillman Farm when it began looking for new gift basket suppliers two years ago.  

“Dillman was a great choice for Indiana-grown goodies. For customers who want to give a sampler basket with an Indiana flavor, they certainly have that in this gift basket,” Gulley said.

The Monroe County chapter buys the baskets exclusively from Dillman Farm so that it does not spend time looking elsewhere for gift baskets at the same price. The baskets bring Dillman Farm business, and chapter members can spend time on Red Cross activities instead of researching basket items and accessories.

This year the baskets include items such as Dillman Farm’s pumpkin butter, berry preserves and chocolate fudge. Other basket items include a pumpkin bread mix, microwave popcorn, Lindt chocolates, assorted tea bags, Abbott caramels and the American Red Cross holiday ornament.

“(My favorite is) the American Red Cross ornament, of course,” Gulley said.
The Monroe County chapter has a set goal of 129 baskets to sell by Dec. 22. Sixty basket orders have been made already. The baskets are ready for pick-up and are locally delivered for free.

Another American Red Cross holiday program this season is Holiday Cards for Heroes. The Red Cross is partnering with Pitney Bowes to collect 1 million holiday cards. They will be sent to U.S. military members serving around the world.
 
The baskets are $45 but are also tax-deductible for $20. To order a basket, call 332-7292, or send an e-mail to jtaylor@monroe-redcross.org. Orders can also be made online at www.monroe-redcross.org.