Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Nov. 30, 2024) — With GivingTuesday – a global celebration of generosity and giving – approaching on Tuesday, Dec. 3, the American Red Cross of Utah is calling on the community to step forward and make a difference. With a near-record number of large-scale disasters this year, the need for financial contributions, blood donors and volunteers has never been greater.
From devastating wildfires to powerful hurricanes, Utah Red Cross volunteers have deployed across the nation, delivering aid and compassion to communities affected by unprecedented disasters. Giving financial donations, blood or time this GivingTuesday can provide vital support to those facing some of the most challenging moments of their lives. Contributions can be made year-round by visiting redcross.org.
“Your support goes directly toward providing emergency aid to those who need it most,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “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 in the face of hardship.”
Relentless Weather and Wildfire Disasters
This year alone has seen 24 climate and weather disasters, each resulting in losses exceeding $1 billion. This marks the second-highest total after last year’s record-setting 28 events. Red Cross volunteers have responded tirelessly, providing shelter, food and critical aid to tens of thousands of people impacted by hurricanes, storms, floods and wildfires. At the same time, they remain committed to supporting families still recovering from the extreme disasters of 2023. From 1980 to 2022, the U.S. averaged just eight major disasters per year.
“Our volunteers have shown extraordinary resilience and dedication amid this year’s challenges,” said Ruster. “Their commitment to helping others has been inspiring, but these incredible efforts cannot continue without the support of our community. On this GivingTuesday, we are inviting Utahns to stand with us in our mission to help those in need.”
Local Efforts to Support Families Affected by Home Fires
Beyond national deployments, the Red Cross of Utah consistently responds to home fires, the most common disaster in the United States. This year alone, Red Cross teams in Utah have responded to nearly 150 home fires, assisting more than 650 people with emotional comfort, financial aid and recovery guidance. Last year, Red Cross volunteers in Utah supported nearly 800 residents impacted by almost 200 home fires and helped reduce future risks by installing more than 550 free smoke alarms.
How You Can Help this GivingTuesday
About GivingTuesday
Established in 2012 by the 92nd Street Y in New York City and the United Nations Foundation, GivingTuesday was created to inspire generosity following the consumer-driven events of Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday. Held on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving, it marks the start of the year-end charitable season. Over the last decade, GivingTuesday has grown into a worldwide movement, with millions of participants from over 90 countries raising more than $3 billion for charitable organizations in 2023 alone.
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.