Red Cross ribbon cutting ceremony on Herritage Street. Photo: Erica Miller/Neuse News.

The American Red Cross has officially opened its new office at 504 Herritage St. in Kinston. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to mark the occasion, attended by community leaders, Red Cross volunteers, and local residents.

James D. Jarvis, Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Eastern NC, expressed his enthusiasm about the new location. “We get to cut the ribbon on our brand new Red Cross office here at 504 Herritage Street in Kinston. As you may know, we've been in this community for 107 years,” Jarvis said. He highlighted the significant contributions the organization has made over the years, including assisting 41 families displaced by home fires and collecting 885 units of blood, benefiting more than 1,800 patients in the community.

The ceremony saw participation from various local dignitaries, including Mayor Dontario Hardy, Mayor Pro Tem Dontario Hardy, Lenoir County Board of Commissioners Chair Linda Rouse Sutton, Cale Grady from the Chamber of Commerce, and Molly Taylor from the United Way. Jarvis thanked these leaders and emphasized the crucial role volunteers play in the Red Cross’s operations. “Our organization is more than 90% volunteer. Without them, none of this works,” he stated.

Chairman Rouse Sutton shared her personal connection to the Red Cross, saying, “I feel like I'm here more as a Red Cross volunteer, although I'm not as active as I used to be, than I am a Commissioner because I started out working at local blood drives.” She praised the visibility of the new location and the dedication of the volunteers and staff. “I’m so glad that we're back where we're visible now and people can see where we are. They know where to come,” Sutton added.

Mayor Hardy commended the Red Cross for its vital role in the community, including support for veterans and disaster victims. “We do appreciate your great efforts and what you do here. You're an asset to our community,” Hardy said. He also highlighted the importance of collaboration and community support for the Red Cross’s mission.

The new office location is expected to enhance the Red Cross’s ability to serve the citizens of Lenoir County more effectively. Jarvis reiterated the organization’s long-standing commitment to the community, providing disaster relief, CPR classes, and blood collection services. He noted that 25% of the collected blood goes to cancer patients, underscoring the life-saving impact of blood donations.

“We're so honored to be here in Lenoir County. Thank you so much to Bill Taylor for partnering with us to share this wonderful building and facility with us. Couldn't do it without you, Sir,” Jarvis concluded before the ribbon was cut, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Red Cross in Kinston.

The ceremony ended with applause as the ribbon was cut, symbolizing a new era of service and visibility for the Red Cross in the heart of Kinston.