STEPHEN FLANAGAN JACKSON PHOTO
American Red Cross representative Robb Resler, center, beams with satisfaction last week as he receives a $1,604 donation for Hurricane Michael victims. From left: Dolores Berens of Samaritans Alzheimer’s Auxiliary, Suzie Vong, Louise Ferla and Sun Radio’s Vern Hendricks and Kevin Goodenow.

Suzie Vong comes through when Red Cross needs funds

By STEPHEN FLANAGAN JACKSON

Everybody knows that when you need a stylish hair trim or a sterling manicure you head straight to the beehive of The World of Suzie Vong’s salon where experienced pros will take care of your grooming needs — men and women.

But you may not realize that the energetic personnel of this shop in the Home Depot Plaza in Sun City Center is always one of the first businesses to respond when help is needed.

And true to form, Suzie recently presented a check to the American Red Cross, in honor of The World of Suzie Vong’s 30th anniversary. 

On Oct. 11, Hurricane Michael made a catastrophic landfall near Panama City, packing winds of more than 150 mph—the strongest storm on record in the Florida Panhandle. Panama City is 400 miles away from Sun City Center, which was spared from this latest hurricane.

In Michael’s devastating wake, more than 3,200 American Red Cross volunteers have delivered critical services for hurricane survivors. Working with government and community partners, the Red Cross helped provide safe shelter, warm meals, relief supplies and emotional support for individuals and families facing staggering losses.

Michael was a major weather disaster that will take time and resources from a large variety of organizations to help families and communities recover. One such group gathered Friday, Dec. 7, at The World of Suzie Vong’s salon, where Suzie, her patrons and friends presented the American Red Cross with a check for $1,604. 

Robb Resler, Regional Philanthropy Officer for the Red Cross was present to accept the check. He said, “Suzie and her heart of gold is what will allow our neighbors in the Panhandle to be able to move past their losses and regain some sense of normalcy to their lives. This gift is truly significant.”

According to Resler, recovery will be a long and challenging journey for the thousands of individuals and families who suffered devastating losses during Hurricane Michael. The Red Cross will be there, working alongside other disaster response partners, government agencies, nonprofit groups, faith-based organizations, area businesses and others, as people begin to recover and rebuild.

Added Resler, “That’s what I love about the Red Cross organization. We are there before, during and after the disaster — be it weeks, months or sometimes even years.” 

The Red Cross depends on generous donors like Suzie Vong, her employees, customers and friends to fund relief services. Added Resler, “If you are considering a year-end gift to a worthwhile nonprofit organization, we know you have many to choose from. By supporting the Red Cross, families in communities like yours will receive relief and hope in the face of life’s emergencies.”

Suzie Vong has a special Red Cross story on why the organization is so special to her. She is happy to share it with anyone who visits the salon.