Hero Care Network goes global

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Milton Hamilton Jr.
  • 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany --  The American Red Cross is dedicated to ensuring U.S. military members are taken care of when emergencies arise.

The Red Cross launched a free Hero Care Network App to help take care of service members.

“The Hero Care Network started off as a call center for only emergency communications, but most of the calls that we were receiving were non-emergencies,” said Julian Coates, Red Cross European Division regional program manager.

According to Coates, the Red Cross then decided to create a platform in which callers could find information on different government services, but at the same time, still be able to report an emergency situation.

“In response to our social media conscious customers and the numerous non-emergency calls we were receiving, we decided to create a user friendly phone app,” said Coates.

The app, available to all iPhone and android users, brings a wide range of programs to its users, such as resiliency, health, safety and disaster preparedness programs.

Anyone can use the app, but only overseas active duty, activated guard/reserve, Department of Defense personnel and contractors whom operate overseas are eligible for emergency communication and services.

In addition to Red Cross programs, the app can also connect users to Veteran Affairs and military one source resources.

Ever since the app was created in 2016, we have seen constant traffic from users worldwide, said Coates.

“This year we’ve had about 350,000 military members and their families use the Hero Care Network,” said Coates. “We expect continuous growth as the word gets out.”

The Hero care network is funded by the Red Cross, which is funded by a Department of Defense grant.

“We have a mandate from congress to provide emergency communication to military members,” said Coates. “Through our app, service members can send emergency messages as well as request emergency leave.”

Currently the app is only available in English or Spanish, but the Red Cross is in the process of translating it into other languages.

For individuals uncomfortable with using the app, the Red Cross has a counselor available for emergency and non-emergency needs at 877-272-7337.