Wylie the ERV, the chapter's robotic emergency response vehicle, visited Jefferson Terrace Elementary School on Wednesday. He and his friend Bethany taught nearly 500 children, pre-K through fifth grade, how to Be Red Cross Ready and about Scrubby Bear--a bear who learns to stay healthy by covering his cough/sneeze in his elbow, washing hands with soap and water while singing Happy Birthday, and to stay clean by not passing germs.

This miniature Red Cross Emergency Response Vehicle speaks, listens, plays music, and has lights and sound effects operated by remote control. The robot was named Wylie after long-time volunteer, Wylie Harvey.

Wylie represents all volunteers who work tirelessly and dedicate many hours of service during disasters. Red Cross Emergency Response Vehicles are used to distribute clean-up kits with cleaning supplies during floods; to transport cots, blankets and other goods to and from shelters; and to provide mobile feeding to neighborhoods hardest hit during disasters.

Wylie the ERV is used in presentations and community disaster education programs throughout the 10-parish area to further educate about preparedness. Wylie was purchased through a grant funded by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana.

Bethany and Wylie made a great pair, and the kids enjoyed every moment!