Blue Cross of California Foundation Donates $50,000 to American...( THOUSAND OAKS Calif. Oct. 24 /- T...),Health

THOUSAND OAKS, Calif., Oct. 24 /PRNewswire/ -- The Blue Cross of California Foundation is donating $50,000 to the American Red Cross to aid in the disaster relief in Southern California. The funds will be used by Red Cross to provide emergency assistance to California families who have been directly affected by the wildfires in the area.

"We are committed to the health and safety of our members and the communities we serve," said Brian A. Sassi, president and general manager of Blue Cross of California (Blue Cross). "Our rapid response to this situation demonstrates the importance we place on ensuring that all necessary provisions will be made available as quickly as possible to those in need." As California's largest health insurer, Blue Cross has been dedicated to providing health care coverage and health security to Californians for more than 70 years.

"During this state of emergency, it is extremely important for local companies such as ours to offer support to those whose lives have been disrupted," said Sassi. "Social responsibility is a top priority of Blue Cross."

As hundreds of thousands of residents were forced to evacuate their homes, Red Cross chapters throughout Southern California have opened shelters and more than 500 Red Cross staff and volunteers have been working since Sunday. Red Cross will continue to broaden its services as needs change.

"It is when organizations such as the Blue Cross of California Foundation step forward generously and rapidly, that we are able to come to the aid of this community. We truly appreciate this support as we meet the needs of those who have had their lives disrupted in the wildfires," said Paul Schulz, CEO American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles.

Members of Blue Cross who have questions about their coverage should contact a representative by referring to the number on their member identification card or visiting our website at '/>"/>