The challenges faced by military families can be difficult, especially for children. To help military families cope, the Red Cross Southern California Region offers a special program to bring joy to military families through its Hug-a-Hero Doll program.

In her role with Service to the Armed Forces, Red Crosser Debra Cox proudly serves those who serve their country. "I cannot think of many greater honors than supporting those who defend the freedoms we here in the United States enjoy," says Debra.

Smoke alarms save lives! Through Red Cross Home Fire Campaign and Sound the Alarm events, Red Cross volunteers installed thousands of free smoke alarms and provided vital home fire safety information for residents across Southern California in 2023.

The week that Bixi Howe’s home caught fire, she joined the American Red Cross. She helped shape the recovery plan for disaster survivors while going through the recovery process herself. “My home fire is part of why I’m at the Red Cross today," says Bixi.

When severe winter storms swept through the San Bernardino Mountains in February and March 2023, the American Red Cross and partners worked together to provide safe shelter, meals, health services, relief items and more for the communities affected.

During the Fairview Fire in September 2022, Red Cross volunteer Octavio Gonzalez served at a shelter helping evacuees. "You are part of humanity. It is our duty to be nice to one another, to help one another, particularly in times of need," says Octavio.

When Steve Cline suffered a heart attack, it was CPR administered by his wife that helped save his life. The Cline’s experience inspired them to take a Red Cross CPR class. “I live in gratitude every day, and it’s all because of CPR," says Steve.

Dangkhoa Nguyen donated platelets for over 20 years. After a donation in March, he was notified by the Red Cross that his white blood cell counts were low and was later diagnosed with leukemia. He credits his platelet donation with helping save his life.

In 2020, Mikie Guerrero was in a serious vehicle accident. Now, as a thank you to those who provided blood products during his treatment, Mikie and his family host an annual “In Honor of Mikie Guerrero Blood Drive” and raise awareness for blood donation.

When Hurricane Ian made landfall in Florida, San Diego County resident Joy Barber knew she needed to do something to support those in need. She began volunteering for the Red Cross, and soon found herself on the ground in Florida helping those affected.

While navigating his new school in Orange County, Andrew Chun found a home at a Red Cross Club. "Try to do as much as you can. You never know how much impact you can make on someone, small moments mean a lot to the people we provide service to," he says.

This year, philanthropists Teresa and Byron Pollitt invested $1 million into the mission of the Red Cross, bringing their cumulative giving to well over $2 million. The Pollitts continue to contribute their time, talents and treasure to the organization.