Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (Nov. 20, 2023) — As GivingTuesday, a global day of generosity and giving, approaches on Nov. 28, the American Red Cross of Southern Nevada emphasizes the increased need for community support. This year has seen a record-breaking number of disasters ravaging communities nationwide, with the Red Cross at the forefront of these relief efforts.
This year, the need is greater than ever. From wildfires to hurricanes, our Nevada volunteers deployed to the communities in need across the country, offering their time, skills and compassion in the face of adversity. Financial donations, blood donations or volunteering time can bring hope to those in their most challenging moments. Support can be shared on GivingTuesday and throughout the year by visiting redcross.org.
“Your support goes directly toward providing emergency aid to those who need it most,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross, Southern Nevada Chapter. “Donating to the Red Cross means more than just giving money. It means providing comfort to a family who has lost everything in a fire, supplying lifesaving blood to someone in critical condition and offering hope when it is needed the most.”
Increasing extreme disasters
So far this year, there have been 25 confirmed weather or climate disaster events in the U.S., each exceeding $1 billion in losses. From 1980 to 2022, the average number of major disasters each year in the U.S. was eight. In 2023, as part of its national efforts, the Red Cross distributed $108 million in financial assistance directly to individuals impacted by disasters of all sizes, including over 900 Southern Nevada residents recovering from devastating home fires.
Flanigan lauded the volunteers, saying, “Our volunteers have shown incredible resilience and dedication in a challenging year. Their commitment to helping others has never been more evident. But we cannot do this alone. On this GivingTuesday, we're inviting everyone in Nevada to join us in our mission.”
Nationwide after disasters, the Red Cross provides vital financial assistance, safe shelter, nutritious meals and emotional support. This year’s surge of large-scale disasters led to an increase in emergency lodging provided by the Red Cross and its partners – with overnight stays up more than 50% compared to the annual average over the previous five years.
About GivingTuesday
Launched in 2012 by the United Nations Foundation and New York’s 92nd Street Y community center, GivingTuesday was conceived as a way to focus on giving following the consumer-centered Thanksgiving weekend events – Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday.
This day of giving takes place on the first Tuesday following Thanksgiving and signals the start of the year-end charitable season. Over the years, it has evolved into a global movement that promotes generosity and empowers individuals and organizations to make a difference in their communities and the world. Last year, millions of people from 90 countries participated in GivingTuesday, raising over $3 billion to support various organizations.
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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.