The Red Cross in Our Community The American Red Cross uses both volunteers and staff to: 1) provide relief to victims of disaster; 2) help people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies; 3) provide reliable safe blood products. In Oregon, the American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disaster an average of 10 times a week; supplies more than 90 percent of Oregon's blood; teaches thousands of Oregonians lifesaving skills; reaches thousands of youth through outreach programs; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization – not a government agency – and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. More detailed information about our services to the community this past year can be found in our 2009 Annual Report to the Community. |