RHODE ISLAND (February 25, 2025) — The American Red Cross is kicking off its annual March is Red Cross Month celebration to honor Rhode Island neighbors who deliver support when help can’t wait during emergencies. 

Red Cross Month is a national tradition that began in March 1943 when President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued the first Red Cross Month proclamation — and each U.S. president has followed ever since. 

“During Red Cross Month, we proudly recognize the individuals who represent the best of humanity by stepping up to care for our neighbors in times of crisis,” said Susan Roberts, executive director of the American Red Cross in Rhode Island. “As disasters become more intense across the country and families face everyday threats like home fires, the support of these local heroes is critical to the health of communities. You can join them to help ensure no one faces an emergency alone by donating, volunteering or taking a class to learn lifesaving skills.” 

Visit redcross.org/GivingDay to make a financial donation and be part of our annual Giving Day, March 26, during Red Cross Month. A gift of any size helps provide emergency shelter, food, relief supplies, basic health care, emotional support and financial assistance for people affected by disasters big and small. You can also visit redcross.org to volunteer or learn lifesaving skills like first aid, CPR or how to use an AED. 

DELIVERING CARE AMID INTENSIFYING DISASTERS As extreme weather intensifies across the country, the need for people to answer the call to help during disasters is as important as ever. 

In just the past six months, Rhode Island Red Cross volunteers have responded to record-breaking wildfires in California, massive floods and hurricanes across the Southeast, and home fires across the state. 

With spring storm season approaching, the need for relief remains critical. We are seeking volunteers to join our Disaster Action Team and respond to local disasters by providing comfort and care to families who have lost everything. Disaster Action Team volunteers offer emotional support, immediate assistance, and information to help families start their recovery process. Learn more about how to get involved at redcross.org/volunteer. 

VOLUNTEERS AND DONORS AT HEART OF RED CROSS This work and more is made possible by volunteers — who comprise 90% of the Red Cross workforce — and generous donors who provide them with the resources to help people in need. With this support, the Rhode Island Red Cross: 

• Responds to an average of one home fire daily, providing immediate disaster assistance and helping families navigate emergencies. 
• Installs hundreds of free smoke alarms in local neighborhoods, making homes safer and reducing fire risks through fire safety education. 
• Trains over 11,500 people annually in First Aid, CPR & AED, water safety, babysitting, and other lifesaving skills. 
• Supports service members, veterans, and their families each year with emergency communications, assistance, and other support services. 

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.