The American Red Cross is a national non-profit, charitable organization that offers disaster relief, emergency assistance, and emergency preparedness education throughout the United States. It was founded in 1948 with the mission of “blood rescue and blood distribution during national disasters.” Today the American Red Cross has several components including the following: operations in more than 120 countries; a global humanitarian service through blood donations; a registered nurses’ program; health care programs including an emergency hospital, medical supplies store, and a pharmacy; and a community development program. All of these operations work to provide assistance to people who are in need. They also assist with disease prevention, community health promotion, child immunization, and other health issues vital to good health. Here is a brief history of how the American Red Cross came into being.

The Red Cross was formed after a massive earthquake and tidal wave killed thousands of people in the South and West. Donors from all over stepped forward to help the Red Cross carry out its disaster relief and recovery efforts. With that in mind, the first American Red Cross volunteers were people who could not afford to donate blood at the time. They were mostly students, recently returned soldiers, and people of modest means. Over the course of the next few decades, many people from all walks of life have given blood. Today, the American Red Cross boasts over thirteen million donors.

There are a variety of ways to donate to the American Red Cross. The most common is through a collection site. Here, blood collection kits are available for purchase and those who would like to donate can bring a box or plastic bag with them. Once the blood has been drawn, it is then delivered to the various donation centers where it is stored in a large warehouse.

Another way to donate blood is at a blood drive. This can be especially convenient for people who are going abroad on a short trip. An organization called SIMS ( Sovereign Savings and Loan Society) will ship unused blood internationally to any location where there is an emergency. This service is usually available through a call to a local number or by visiting the SIMS website. People who are interested can register online or at a local SIMS office.

However, there are still other ways to donate blood to the American Red Cross that don’t involve calling a phone or mailing in an envelope. Many blood supply centers have a collection center set up for people who are looking to donate. At these centers, donors can collect their own blood in return for a discount. It’s important to remember that when collecting blood, hygiene is of utmost importance. Donors should wash their hands before they collect any blood and they should make sure that the collected blood is packed in a way that is not infectious.

If you are wondering whether or not you can donate blood, the answer is yes. The American Red Cross is one of the largest blood supply organizations in the country. Donating blood allows families to help others in need and helps the Red Cross meet their obligations to those who are in need of lifesaving medical treatment. Donating blood doesn’t just benefit the Red Cross either; it also benefits a whole lot of people, both those in need of blood and those who need the blood. When the tide changes, it often does for those who give it.