American Red Cross North Central Florida Chapter

The North Central Florida Chapter of the American Red Cross has its office on NW 6th St. in Gainesville. Its territory takes in more than 550,000 people across Alachua, Bradford, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Suwannee, Taylor and Union counties.

Anyone hit by a house fire or another disaster can call the Red Cross at any hour. The chapter also supports service members, veterans and their families through a separate line open around the clock.

Classes cover CPR, first aid, lifeguarding, swimming and water safety, and the 1-800 number also answers questions about classes and certification cards. Local residents can volunteer or donate to help people facing disasters of every size, and groups can ask for the Red Cross or a Red Cross speaker at their events.