Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Nov. 27, 2022) — A celebration of generosity kicks off worldwide this Giving Tuesday, Nov. 29, and the American Red Cross has three important ways residents can contribute to their local communities. The organization is encouraging people in Utah to consider giving lifesaving blood, financial donations, or their invaluable time.
“Giving Tuesday is a chance for us to give back in whatever way we can, large or small,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “It’s a global effort to encourage everyone to come together and contribute to those in need.”
Created in 2012 by the United Nations Foundation and New York’s 92nd Street Y community center, Giving Tuesday was designed to put the spotlight on giving after a Thanksgiving weekend focused on shopping events – Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday. Last year, millions of people in 98 countries came together on Giving Tuesday to support charitable causes, helping to raise more than $180 million to support a variety of organizations.
“This Tuesday and throughout the holidays, we hope Utahns will chose to make an impact through donations to the Red Cross – in any of three important ways,” Ruster said. “We’re encouraging residents to consider making a financial donation, giving blood or platelets, or signing up to become a Red Cross volunteer.”
With the help of generous volunteers and contributors, this year the Red Cross was able to provide shelter, food, and support to those devastated by floods in Kentucky, Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico, and Hurricane Ian in Florida, according to Ruster.
“The Red Cross of Utah brings help and hope to those in need, but we can’t do our work without the contributions of others,” emphasized Ruster. “From showing up to support families devastated by a home fire to providing lifesaving blood to hospital patients, we’re there because so many people are willing to find a way to donate to our efforts. Giving Tuesday is a special opportunity to remind everyone the Red Cross needs and appreciates your generosity, year-round.”
Three ways you can support your community through the Red Cross
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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.