Since 1943, March has been designated American Red Cross Month. The American Red Cross is absolutely vital to national disaster relief efforts. They collect, process, and distribute 40% of the nation’s blood supply, they provide shelter to victims of house fires, and they offer educational programs on preparedness, health and safety.
According to their website, the American Red Cross provided over 34,000 overnight stays, served over 1.1 million meals and snacks, helped over 19,000 households recover from disaster, and distributed over 800,000 relief items in 2015 alone.
Here are some ways that you can participate in Red Cross month*:
1. Become a Red Cross volunteer. You can help in your local community.
2. Give blood and help a patient on their road to recovery.
3. Take a class; be able to help during an emergency.
4. Make a plan. Develop a preparedness plan with members of your household.
5. Make a financial donation. Your support will allow us to help those in need.
visit http://www.redcross.org/support to learn more ways you can help
Monday, January 18, 2016. Red Cross volunteers sharing fire information with Ernest Neely.
Photo by Jenny Baragary for the American Red Cross
If you know a Red Cross volunteer, thank them for their hard work. They truly are everyday heroes.
*from http://www.redcross.org/news/article/Red-Cross-Month-A-Time-to-Recognize-Community-Heroes