Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Aug. 7, 2025) — The American Red Cross of Utah today announced a significant $5.1 million contribution from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The gift will support critical efforts, including blood donation programs with equipment for new donor centers and programs supporting sickle cell disease treatment
“Through our collaboration, we are increasing blood donations, advancing sickle cell disease treatment and strengthening our ability to bless millions of lives,” said Blaine Maxfield, managing director of Welfare and Self-Reliance Services. “By uniting our efforts, we extend the Savior’s love to those in need.”
This year’s donation will enhance the Red Cross’s ability to support patients with sickle cell disease by expanding donor outreach and adding critical blood collection equipment. The funding supports the purchase of specialized platelet and red blood cell collection machines, helping increase the availability of compatible blood units for individuals living with sickle cell disease.
“The Church’s donation will support Red Cross efforts and initiatives in Utah and across the country,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “But this partnership goes far beyond funding. It’s a testament to our shared dedication to serving and supporting those in need.”
Church members have been active blood donors since the Church hosted its first blood drive in 1996. Today, the Church is the largest single contributor to American Red Cross blood drives, with members donating approximately 97,000 units annually across thousands of drives. Over the past three decades, more than 1 million units of blood have been collected from over 37,000 Church-hosted drives.
A Century-Long Partnership
The relationship between the American Red Cross and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints began over a century ago through joint humanitarian initiatives during the Spanish-American War. The partnership dates back to Red Cross founder Clara Barton and the Church’s Relief Society President Emmeline B. Wells, whose joint efforts in assembling comfort kits for soldiers led to the creation of the Salt Lake City chapter of the Red Cross.
A Tradition of Generosity
This $5.1 million donation builds on a legacy of giving. Last year, the Church contributed $7.35 million to support Red Cross blood donation initiatives and other programs. Additionally, in 2025, the Church donated $1.2 million to assist the relief efforts for Southern California wildfires, helping provide food, shelter and emotional support.
The Church’s generosity extends beyond financial donations. Church members are among Red Cross volunteers providing disaster relief nationwide. The Church also provides in-kind donations such as disaster relief kits with essential hygiene items. These contributions align with the Church’s global philanthropic efforts, which in 2024 exceeded $1.45 billion to help those in need worldwide.
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.
