(News release) – The American Red Cross of Northwest Missouri has ended its long-time
financial partnership with United Way of Greater St. Joseph.

The Red Cross said the decision was based on the Red Cross’s
need for steady support of its entire service area consisting of 18 counties, which stretch across
Northwest Missouri and Northeast Kansas.

United Way’s primary focus area is Buchanan, Andrew and Doniphan counties, which does not align with
the Northwest Missouri Chapter’s service area. This means that United Way’s funding is restricted to a
small percentage of the Red Cross’s area of growing services.

Springs said the United Way has proposed a method of funding that would only partially reimburse services provided by
the Red Cross. The proposal potentially could reduce funding this year by up to 77% or $167,000. This
restricts the Red Cross’s ability to deliver its own services while adhering to fundraising restrictions
imposed on a United Way Partner Agency.

“We are saddened that we must end a great financial partnership with United Way,” Red Cross
Executive Director Angie Springs said. “We will look more to the people in our communities we serve for
direct financial support and will continue providing the help, hope and service they expect and deserve.”
The Red Cross and United Way will continue to collaborate to meet needs within the community.

Springs went on to add, “Both organizations are on the same team and are focusing on helping people in
this community. In fulfilling our missions, however, we are approaching our work from a different
vantage point.”