Orientation on Feb. 5 Outlines Organization’s Disaster Response Role
January 26, 2015
Contact: Doug Bolnick, Public Information Officer, (636) 949-7408
St. Charles County, Missouri – In times of need, many lend their neighbors a helping hand. In a large-scale disaster or community-wide emergency, a trained team working in coordination with strategically mobilized resources can provide assistance that may be the difference between life and death for many in our area. The St. Charles County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) is a volunteer-based unit formed to assist this response and meet the demands of a health-related crisis.
The St. Charles County MRC will provide support to governmental and public service agencies when resources are limited, large numbers of people are affected or widespread emergencies occur. Medically trained and non-medical professionals alike can put their knowledge and skills to use in helping the community. Previous experience is not required, as MRC leaders will train dedicated volunteers in roles such as:
- dispensing medication
- illness investigation
- logistics
- financial accountability
- public communication
- mental health and spiritual support
- transportation
- pet sheltering
- and much more
The St. Charles County Department of Community Health and the Environment sponsors the local MRC chapter and offers an open house at 6 p.m., on Thursday, February 5, to introduce current and prospective members to the benefits of the program. Presented at the health department (1650 Boone’s Lick Road in St. Charles), the orientation will provide an overview of the program, discuss various roles within the County’s emergency response plan and outline the MRC training/certification program. If you are 18 or older, and would be interested in assisting the St. Charles County MRC or would like to learn more about the program, please call St. Charles County Regional Response Planner Andrew Willman at (636) 949-7554.
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