July 21, 2011-Detroit, MI--As the heat rises, the need for water rises as well. The American Red Cross, Southeastern Michigan Regional Chapter is working with the Metro-Detroit Climate Justice Task Force in response to the current heat emergency. Thanks to the Meijer Corporation for their generous donation of bottled water, the Red Cross is able to supply water for cooling centers throughout the Southeast Michigan Area. In addition, the Red Cross is providing comfort kits and cots to residents to visit the cooling centers.

The partnership between Meijer and the American Red Cross is strong. In 2008, when 29 counties in Indiana were invaded by floodwaters and it was declared a federal disaster area, the Red Cross established 19 shelters providing assistance to nearly 4,000 residents. In response to the disaster, Meijer not only provided financial assistance to the Red Cross but also provided meals to the 900 volunteers