60+ Years of Support -- An (Oregon) Red Cross Story

Back in the late 1930’s, George Bray (then a young man) moved with his family from California to Oregon. Times were tough back in the 1930’s. The Great Depression had the nation in economic turmoil, which is what forced the Bray’s to move to Oregon – George’s father had to change jobs, primarily for reasons of health, while working in an agricultural business.

The family moved to Oregon and started a new business venture. They first purchased a general-purpose farm, but later sold it and acquired a motel and home along the Willamette River, which soon became a success. Everything looked bright for the Bray’s, until one day in 1942.

In 1942 the Willamette River flooded, destroying both the Bray’s motel and home –leaving the family homeless and unemployed. At an age when most are thinking about retiring, George’s father took a job working in a lumber mill, which was physically demanding and dangerous work. It was all they could do just to live from day-to-day.

Friends of the family contacted the local Red Cross Chapter, who then contacted the Brays, providing help and assistance – turning the family around. The Red Cross provided housing for the family, and helped George’s father restart with another farm operation, which was once again, a success. This brought the family back to financial security and independence.

Today, 60+ years later, George Bray still remembers the flood - and the assistance provided by the American Red Cross. Every year George continues to make a contribution as a Clara Barton Society member, because “the Red Cross serves people in need and helps them, when they are least able to help themselves.” Incidentally, while living, George’s parents also continued to annually support the Red Cross.

Gifts of $1,000 or more place individual contributors into the Clara Barton Society. If you would like more information, please contact Kevin Coté at 503.528.5663.