American Red Cross volunteers responded to 17 home fires in the past week in Sauk Village, Harvey, LaGrange, Villa Park, Geneva, Wonder Lake, Mokena and Chicago and provided assistance to 78 people, by supplying them with items to meet immediate needs after a fire, and additional support in the form of health and mental health services and one-on-one support.

Visit redcross.org/fire for information on setting up your home fire escape drill and to learn more about home fire safety. Download our free Emergency app by searching for “American Red Cross” in app stores or visiting redcross.org/apps.

Please call 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767) if you or someone you know needs assistance after a home fire or local disaster.


Volunteer with the Red Cross during Hispanic Heritage Month

As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, the American Red Cross honors the rich contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities to our society. From disaster responders to dedicated blood donors, the impact of Hispanic heritage is woven into the fabric of our mission. This month, we celebrate our Hispanic Red Cross volunteers play and invite you to become part of this important work.

Why Multicultural Communications Matter

At the Red Cross, effective communication is essential to delivering our mission. In times of disaster, clear and accurate information can save lives. Our Multicultural Communications team ensures that messages resonate with diverse communities, breaking down language and cultural barriers to ensure that everyone has access to critical services.

However, the demand for these services continues to grow. Whether it's translating vital information, engaging with local media, or helping communities prepare for emergencies, the need for volunteers who can bridge cultural gaps is greater than ever.

The Power of Hispanic Heritage in Mission Delivery

Hispanic volunteers bring invaluable perspectives and skills to the Red Cross. Their understanding of cultural nuances, language proficiency, and deep-rooted connections within their communities significantly enhance our ability to serve all people effectively.

Red Cross Multicultural Communications volunteers are at the forefront of our efforts to create culturally relevant content, engage with Spanish-speaking media, and ensure that our messages reach diverse audiences. They contribute directly to the humanitarian efforts that make a tangible difference in people's lives.

How to Get Involved

As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, let us unite behind the power of community. and the difference we can make together. We are actively seeking bilingual individuals who can help us deliver our mission. There are many ways to get involved including Spanish proofreader/translators, disaster action team members, shelter volunteers, blood drive ambassadors and blood transportation specialists, to name a few.

To join the Red Cross team, visit redcross.org/volunteer.

Your commitment can help ensure that all communities receive the care and support they need, no matter the challenge.

About the American Red Cross: 

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.