March is Red Cross Month!


March is ‘Red Cross Month’, as first proclaimed in 1943 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Since that time, every president, including President Obama, has designated March as ‘Red Cross Month’. The American Red Cross uses this time to communicate the range of its services to the public, and for fundraising. How did this tradition come about? Read more about the history of Red Cross Month.
The Red Cross responds to nearly 70,000 emergencies and disasters every year in the U.S., providing shelter, food, emotional support and other necessities to those affected. It provides 24-hour help to victims of house fires across the country. It also offers 24-hour assistance to members of the military, veterans and their families – in war zones, military hospitals and on military bases around the world. Finally, it collects and distributes more than 40 percent of the nation’s blood supply and trains more than 9 million people in first aid, water safety and other life-saving skills each year.
This month, the American Red Cross is asking everyone to help those in need by contributing to the lifesaving services it provides. “Red Cross Month is a great time for people to aid our mission. Their kindness and generosity will enable us to continue our work, both here at home and across the globe,” said Maree Wacker, Regional Executive of the Oregon Red Cross.
The Red Cross is not a government agency and relies on donations of time, money and blood to do its work. An average of 91 cents of every dollar given to the Red Cross is invested in helping the people the Red Cross services. Regardless of nationality, political beliefs, religious background or anything else, the Red Cross is there for everyone. In this year’s proclamation, Obama encourages “all Americans to support this organization’s noble humanitarian mission.”
“Please remember those who need our help by making a donation, becoming a volunteer, taking a class, or giving blood,” Wacker said. “When you do, know that you are part of a movement that exists around the world, created to help all people.”