Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Dec. 24, 2024) — Donations to the American Red Cross of Utah will have double the impact this holiday season, thanks to a generous matching offer from a Highland, Utah, couple, who wish to remain anonymous. Every dollar donated by Dec. 31 will be matched – up to a total of $25,000 – helping to maximize support for those in need. To take advantage of this special opportunity, donate through the designated link: https://rdcrss.org/4iPm5hq.
This matching opportunity multiplies the impact of every contribution, helping to provide critical support for those in need. Donations may offer food and shelter to families displaced by home fires, assist deployed service members in returning home for significant family milestones, or provide lifesaving blood for patients fighting serious illnesses.
“We are deeply grateful for this remarkable act of kindness,” said Benjamin Donner, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Central and Southern Utah Chapter. “By offering to match donations, this generous couple is not only doubling the impact of every gift but also inspiring our community to come together and make a difference. Their support strengthens our ability to provide critical aid during emergencies, bringing hope and help when it’s needed most.”
Supporting the Community
Red Cross disaster volunteers and staff frequently respond to home fires, the most common disaster in the country, providing immediate assistance to affected families. This year alone, the Red Cross of Utah has responded to nearly 150 home fires, offering emotional support, financial aid and recovery resources to more than 500 residents. Last year, nearly 800 Utah residents received assistance following nearly 200 home fires.
Additionally, the Red Cross equips volunteers with free training and resources to respond to disasters nationwide, including hurricanes, wildfires and floods. This year, Utah volunteers have deployed to assist in major disasters, such as Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, which caused widespread devastation in southeastern states.
Beyond Emergencies: Lifesaving Support at Every Turn
The Red Cross in Utah plays a vital role in supporting the community through impactful programs and services. A leading contributor to the nation’s blood supply, the Red Cross provides 40% of all blood donations nationwide, serving over 2,500 hospitals and transfusion centers. Locally, nearly 45 hospitals in Utah depend on these donations to meet the needs of patients. To sustain this service, the Red Cross must collect about 12,500 blood donations and 3,000 platelet donations daily.
Beyond healthcare, the Red Cross empowers individuals through accessible training programs in CPR, first aid and emergency preparedness. These trainings equip participants with life-saving skills, creating safer and stronger communities.
The Red Cross also serves as an unwavering supporter of veterans and military families, offering services such as emergency communication, financial assistance, and resources to support transitions during deployments and homecomings. Globally, the organization extends its reach through international aid focused on disaster relief, health services, and support for vulnerable communities.
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.