BASH*2013 Raises Over $352,000 to Support Red Cross Disaster Services

Local volunteers assisting 23 area residents following weekend fires

BUFFALO, NY, June 11, 2013 – BASH*2013 was a huge success, raising $352,00 to support American Red Cross Disaster Services in Erie & Niagara Counties. Over 4,000 “soldiers” marched on the grounds of Red Cross headquarters last Friday, June 7 for the 15^th Anniversary of this unique military-themed event, bidding on auction items donated by various members of the community, enjoyed food and drink from some of Western New York’s finest restaurants, all while dancing to the music of the DJs from Signature Entertainment and a live performance from the one and only Lance Diamond.

“I can’t thank our staff, volunteers, sponsors and supporters enough for making The BASH Buffalo’s party of the summer for the past 15 years,” said Nancy Blaschak, Regional Executive Director. “I especially want to thank our BASH Chairman, Mr. John Yurtchuk, for helping us bring in a record amount of corporate sponsorships this year, and the most important thing is that all the money raised at The BASH will help us prevent, prepare for and respond to disaster right here in Western New York.”

Since BASH*2013 wrapped up at midnight Friday, Red Cross volunteers have responded to three fires in the City of Buffalo, providing immediate emergency assistance including vouchers for temporary housing, food and clothing as well as emotional support to 23 of our neighbors in need. Our Disaster Action Team responds to an average of a fire a day in Erie & Niagara Counties, providing an average of just over $1,000 in direct financial assistance when responding to a single family house fire affecting a family of four. 

More information on BASH*2013, including a full list of sponsors, participating restaurants and other supporters, is available at www.redcross.org/buffalobash. And save the date: the 16^th annual BASH is scheduled for Friday, June 6, 2014!