What Is the Purpose of the American Red Cross?

The American National Red Cross is the United States affiliate of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. It was founded as a non-government organization in 1863. It is staffed primarily by volunteers and raises money through donations. There are about 700 different chapters of the organization, with an additional 900 blood bank operations. According to the Chronicle of Philanthropy, the Red Cross is one of the most efficient and wide-reaching charity in the world.

Function

The primary purpose of the American Red Cross is to provide emergency assistance and disaster relief during events that require greater assistance than local emergency services can provide. During natural or man-made disasters, such as hurricanes or terrorist attacks, the Red Cross will set up relief locations.

Features

The American Red Cross also provides educational services nationwide to schools, hospitals and communities. They are responsible primarily for distributing information about communicable and blood-born diseases such as AIDS. They also provide flu vaccines on a regular basis.

Significance

The organization handles general operations for people in need. In major cities and many other communities throughout the country, the American Red Cross works to gather donations for food banks and distributes charity to the needy.

Benefits

The American Red Cross, along with other operations with veterans groups, provides communication services and comfort for members of the military and their families.

Considerations

One of the primary services the American Red Cross performs is gathering blood donations. The Red Cross is responsible for collecting nearly 7.5 million units of blood each year, according to 2006 figures.

Resources

• American Red Cross
• History of the Red Cross