Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (March 24, 2025) — The 11th annual American Red Cross Giving Day is on Wednesday, March 26, and the Red Cross of Utah is inviting residents to make an impact in one of three crucial ways: by giving financial support, donating blood or volunteering their time.
“Red Cross Giving Day is an opportunity for everyone to support their community in meaningful ways,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “This is a chance for individuals, families and groups to come together and lend a hand to those in need.”
Created in 2015, Red Cross Giving Day was established to highlight the critical need for public support in advancing humanitarian efforts. “Today and throughout the year, we hope Utahns will choose to make an impact,” said Ruster. “We encourage residents to consider making a financial donation, giving blood or signing up to become a Red Cross volunteer to support this vital mission.”
Matching Opportunities Help Amplify Giving
On Red Cross Giving Day, donations made on redcross.org will be matched dollar-for-dollar through the generosity of Ford Philanthropy, up to $250,000. Additionally, on Thursday, March 27, Hilton Grand Vacations will match donations up to $50,000, giving contributors another chance to double their impact after Giving Day.
These matching programs amplify the power of every donation, enabling the Red Cross to continue crucial work in communities. Contributions support disaster relief, blood collection, preparedness training, and assistance for veterans and military families, ensuring help is available during times of crisis. For example, last year, the Red Cross of Utah responded to nearly 150 home fires, providing aid to almost 800 people. Learn more at redcross.org/givingday.
Addressing the Growing Needs from Natural Disasters
Last year, the U.S. witnessed 27 weather and climate disasters with damages exceeding $1 billion each, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This followed a record-breaking 28 events in 2023. Amid these challenges, Red Cross volunteers have worked tirelessly, offering shelter, meals and crucial aid to people devastated by hurricanes, storms, floods and wildfires.
Over the past four decades (1980–2022), the nation averaged just eight major disasters annually. However, the intensifying frequency and scale of today’s events highlight the urgent need for more support.
Ways to Get Involved
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.
