Great institutions, it has been said, are often born in humble circumstances, sometimes in the pain of conflict and adversity. Destiny provided these elements for the Los Angeles Chapter of the American Red Cross.
Its beginning was a humble one, forged against the backdrop of a world at war. Supporting our nation in World War I was the first of the chapter’s activities. Through the years, the programs and services have increased to meet the emerging needs of a growing and diverse Southern California community.
Among the many services provided by the chapter over the years have been: disaster preparedness and relief; establishment of blood and tissue collection programs and a marrow donor recruitment program; first aid/CPR and water safety training programs; health services and health education; international tracing; assistance for members of the military and their families; and many more.
Primary among the many services has been the chapter’s response to aid those affected by disasters, large and small. From the largest, the 1994 Northridge Earthquake, to the smallest, residential fires that occur daily, the chapter’s disaster workers have always been there to provide emergency assistance.
The Red Cross Los Angeles Chapter consolidated with other chapters around the Los Angeles area in 2010 to form the Red Cross Los Angeles Region.