Julie Ott, Lee Steinberg, Larry Casey, CEO of the American Red Cross Greater Palm Beach Area Chapter, and Tracy Sussman, manager of the South County Service Center.

Boca Raton resident Lee Steinberg moved to the area in 2003, just in time to witness the aftermath of a busy hurricane season. He saw how much support the local Red Cross provided to struggling residents and has been a major benefactor for the last six years. Steinberg recently donated $40,000 to the Red Cross as part of its HEROES Campaign, a six-week fundraising initiative that wrapped up June 5.

“The money was donated through the Lee Pearlson Steinberg Foundation, which my mother is also a part of. We try to support organizations that make an impact locally, and the Red Cross certainly fits that bill,” he said.

Steinberg said he had always known of the Red Cross’ work internationally, but was unaware of how much assistance the group provides to local residents in need.

“We all know how quickly they respond in a storm’s aftermath, but they do so much more. If a local family is displaced by a fire, they are right there with food or anything else they may need,” said Steinberg.

He also said the only other entities that provide so much support to so many are police and fire departments, both of which are funded.

“The Red Cross sustains by way of donations, and they do not receive any kind of funding. I wanted to be involved with an organization that helps everyone regardless of race, gender, age or any other factors,” he said.

For more information or to assist, call 561-994-2060 or visit www.redcross-pbc.org/southcounty.