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St. Paul, Minn.

Twin Cities Red Cross cuts budget, services

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(AP) - The American Red Cross chapter in the Twin Cities is cutting its budget, and one of the first programs to go is a ride service for the disabled and elderly.

The 30-year-old ride service probably won't be the only program cut as the agency faces a $3 million budget reduction this year.

Red Cross spokeswoman Carrie Carlson says eliminating the ride service was an incredibly difficult decision, but the Red Cross is focusing on its core missions.

Those include disaster response, first aid and CPR training, international aid programs and services for the armed forces.

A drop in donations and investment income meant the agency's budget went from $10 million in 2008 to $7 million in 2009. The local chapter has also had layoffs and won't fill open jobs.

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Information from: St. Paul Pioneer Press, http://www.twincities.com

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)