The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. You can give every two months or so. The more blood you donate, the more lives you can save. Donate blood.

10 things you might not know about the Red Cross

• A gruesome battle sparked the idea for the Red Cross.
• It's the largest humanitarian network in the world!
• We work in some of the most dangerous places.
• The Red Cross is NOT a logo.
• It's also not a religious symbol.
• We find missing relatives.

We help communities design their own health solutions: from first aid teams to village-owned health funds and healthy lifestyle initiatives. When disasters strike, we race to restore health services and stop diseases from spreading.

Over 140 Years of Compassionate Service Since our founding by Clara Barton on May 21, 1881, the American Red Cross has been dedicated to serving people in need.

Origins of the Red Cross Movement The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement started in 1863 and was inspired by Swiss businessman Henry Dunant. The suffering of thousands of men on both sides of the Battle of Solferino in 1859 upset Dunant. Many were left to die due to lack of care.

The main functions of the Red Cross are:

• To extend relief and help to the victims of any calamity – fire, flood, famine, earthquakes, etc.
• To procure and supply blood for the victims of war and other calamities.
• To extend all possible first-aid in an accident.
• To educate people in accident prevention.

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 Indian Red Cross is a voluntary humanitarian organization having a network of over 1100 branches throughout the country, providing relief in times of disasters/emergencies and promotes health & care of the vulnerable people and communities.

Origins of the Red Cross Movement The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement started in 1863 and was inspired by Swiss businessman Henry Dunant. The suffering of thousands of men on both sides of the Battle of Solferino in 1859 upset Dunant.

Clara BartonAmerican Red Cross / Founder Clarissa Harlowe Barton, known as Clara, is one of the most honored women in American history. Barton risked her life to bring supplies and support to soldiers in the field during the Civil War. She founded the American Red Cross in 1881, at age 59, and led it for the next 23 years.

in 1920 Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) was established in 1920 under the Indian Red Cross Society Act and incorporated under Parliament Act XV of 1920.

The Red Cross, born of a desire to bring assistance without discrimination to the wounded on the battlefield, endeavors - in its international and national capacity - to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found. Its purpose is to protect life and health and to ensure respect for the human being.