The Red Cross and Giving Tuesday

The holiday season has officially started, with major feasting and shopping days packed into the last week of November. Now, on the first day of December, the American Red Cross launches a time to Give Something that Means Something, joining non-profits across the country for Giving Tuesday.

Wondering how can you participate? We have plenty of options – a whole catalog’s worth! You can choose gifts to donate in honor of the special people in your life. Free holiday greeting cards are also available to announce your gifts or send a Red Cross eCard. Finally, know your gift will help people when they need it most.

Here are some Giving Tuesday highlights from the 2015 Holiday Catalog.

Blankets that give comfort and security to victims of disasters.

In a disaster, children and families are often exposed to the elements. You can provide warm, cozy blankets to protect them from the cold and help them sleep comfortably in emergency shelters.

Fire safety training and smoke alarms to help reduce fire-related deaths and injuries in at-risk communities.

Home fires are the greatest disaster threat to American families and communities. Approximately seven people die every day from home fires, and nearly every 8 minutes the American Red Cross responds to a home fire or other disaster. Your gift helps the Red Cross reduce home fire related deaths and injuries in at-risk communities by working with volunteers, local fire departments and community partners to install smoke alarms and provide fire safety education and training.

Reconnection services for families who have been separated by war or disasters.

Many service members return from deployment and need help readjusting to their home, work and community. Reconnection workshops help these service members, veterans and their families through small-group discussions led by licensed mental health professionals- addressing issues like stress, depression, communication and supporting children. Help families reconnect today.

Blood services to help ensure blood is safe and available for those in need.

Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood. The Red Cross must collect 15,000 blood donations every day to meet the needs of patients at approximately 2,600 hospitals and transfusion centers across the country. Your gift today will enable us to recruit volunteer blood donors, collect and test their blood, and deliver lifesaving blood products to patients in need. Red Cross blood provides hope for patients and often means the difference between life and death.

Stay tuned to Red Cross social channels, including Twitter and Facebook, to see Red Cross work in action. Follow and use #GiveWithMeaning on social channels during this campaign and throughout holiday season.