Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Dec. 30, 2025) — The American Red Cross of Utah is offering a limited year-end opportunity for donors to extend the reach of their generosity, with up to $1 million in matching funds available during the final two days of the year. Donations made before midnight on Dec. 31 will be matched dollar-for-dollar, supporting critical Red Cross services and strengthening the organization’s ability to respond to emergencies in the year ahead.
“Matching funds at the end of the year allow us to respond more quickly and with greater flexibility when emergencies occur,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “Support during this time helps strengthen our readiness for the challenges communities may face in the year ahead.”
The matching opportunity is made possible through the support of corporate partners. Wells Fargo is matching donations up to a total of $500,000 on Tuesday, Dec. 30, and State Farm will match donations up to a total of $500,000 on Wednesday, Dec. 31. Donations eligible for matching funds can be made at RedCross.org/Give, by calling 1-800-HELP NOW (1-800-435-7669) or by texting REDCROSS to 90999.
This matching opportunity comes at a critical time when the need for Red Cross services remains constant, but donations often decline during the holidays. Contributions will support vital programs, including disaster relief, blood collection, preparedness efforts and assistance for military families.
Why Year-End Giving Matters
The end of the calendar year remains one of the most significant periods for charitable giving, with charities often receiving a substantial portion of their annual contributions in December. In many fundraising reports, about 30% of annual charitable donations occur in December, with nearly 10% made in just the final three days of the year, as donors complete planned giving before the end of the year.
Tax considerations also play a role in year-end giving. Under current IRS rules, a donation must be made by Dec. 31 to qualify for a tax deduction on the donor’s 2025 tax return, providing an important consideration for year-end financial planning.
Support Making a Difference Nationwide and in Utah
Across the country, the American Red Cross provides critical support to communities affected by disasters, including wildfires, flooding and tornadoes. Volunteers deliver shelter, food and emotional support, respond to home fires — which increase by about 20% during the holidays — and have distributed more than $130 million in financial assistance nationwide to help families recover.
In Utah this year, Red Cross volunteers responded to more than 140 home fires in 2025, assisting over 675 people, installed more than 2,000 free smoke alarms, and supported veterans, military families and hundreds of blood drives while also deploying nationwide to assist communities in need.
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.
