At Legislators-of-the-Year Ceremony
As part of an annual Legislators-of-the-Year ceremony celebrated during Red Cross Month (March), the American Red Cross of Western New York formally recognized and thanked NYS Senator Pamela Helming for demonstrating great support for the organization’s mission. The recognition took place during a special gathering held on March 11 in Albany that honored a total of six New York State legislators.
Pamela Helming is the New York State Senator for the 54th District, representing Ontario, Wayne, and Livingston counties and the Monroe County towns of Chili, Mendon, Riga, Rush, and Wheatland. She is the first woman elected to the 54th Senate District. Senator Helming was recognized for her ongoing support of blood donation, including hosting her own annual blood drive in Canandaigua and helping secure funding for the Red Cross’s humanitarian mission.
“Support for the Red Cross can take many forms, but what sets Senator Helming apart is that her commitment is not symbolic—it is personal, consistent, and deeply rooted in action,” said Nick Bond, CEO of the Red Cross of Western New York. “Year after year, she makes the Red Cross a priority in the work we do together in the community. Senator Helming doesn’t just lend her name; she shows up. She attends blood drives because she understands the importance of being present and engaged. The Senator and her team go a step further by creating and distributing information across her entire district, using every available platform to educate, encourage, and mobilize donors. Senator Helming has also been a strong and consistent voice in support of humanitarian services funding, helping to advance the partnerships that allow us to meet people where they are—during their most vulnerable moments.”
“Being recognized as Legislator of the Year by the American Red Cross is very humbling,” said Senator Helming. “This honor is especially meaningful knowing how deeply the organization is woven into the fabric of our district, dating back to when Clara Barton established the first Red Cross chapter in Dansville.”
Senator Helming, who participated in a 2024 ceremony celebrating a renovation of the historic Chapter #1 in Dansville, continued: “The Red Cross has a long-standing record of service in times of need. I have been present when Red Cross volunteers showed up in the middle of the night to provide emergency assistance following tornadoes, devastating fires, and floods. And I’ve been proud to work with the Red Cross on annual blood drives to help secure critical supply needs. I am truly grateful for this recognition and for the opportunity to support an organization that makes such a meaningful difference in the lives of so many.”
Senator Helming was among six New York State legislators recognized for their commitment to the Red Cross mission to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies. The Red Cross in New York State is comprised of three regions – Greater New York, Eastern New York, and Western New York.
The other 2026 Legislators-of-the-Year were Hon. April Baskin (Western NY), Hon. Charles Lavine (Eastern NY), Hon. Dana Levenberg (Greater NY), Hon. Steven Raga (Greater NY), and Hon. Carrie Woerner (Eastern NY).
“Our state’s legislators share deeply in our humanitarian spirit, and their steadfast commitment to serving the people of New York bolsters our ability to deliver help and hope in times of crisis. Their support enables us to respond more effectively, expand preparedness programs, and reach even more families when they need us most. We value this partnership and the positive impact it has on communities across the state,” Bond said.
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