American Red Cross

 “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.”

The American Red Cross is led by amazing network of volunteers united by a generous spirit and unity of mission. The American Red Cross mission bonds us all. Because of Red Cross volunteers, donors and partners who carry the mission in their hearts, we can bring hope to the American people during times of need -- every day, week or month, year after year. 

The Central and Shenandoah Virginia Chapter of the American Red Cross is made up or 18 counties and 5 independent cities, and serve in our community every day. We are here when a family has lost their home to a fire; when a child needs blood after an accident; when a service member needs to get home for a family emergency; when a heroic citizen must perform CPR on a stranger in the street; and when people seek shelter, food and comfort after a large scale disaster.

The Central and Shenandoah Territory serves 18 counties and 5 independent cities: Albemarle/Charlottesville, Rockingham/Harrisonburg, Augusta/Waynesboro/Staunton, Nelson Co, Greene Co, Louisa Co, Fluvanna Co, Buckingham Co, Orange Co, Culpeper Co, Madison Co, Fauquier Co, Rappahannock Co, Page Co, Warren Co, Clarke Co, Frederick/Winchester, and Shenandoah Co. 

The humanitarian mission of the American Red Cross connects us to people and communities across the nation and around the world. The common bonds of humanity and compassion unite us together, not just in the face of emergencies and disasters, but in helping our neighbors every day.

Since founded by Clara Barton in 1881, the Red Cross has been a consistent lifeline for people when they need us the most. The depth and breadth of our services – whenever and wherever they're called for – is unmatched by any organization in the world.

Services to Armed Forces:  This program ensures all members of our armed services and their families find support and comfort when needed.  Red Cross caseworkers verify the emergency situation and communicate the family emergency to the military command.  The Red Cross is the only organization recognized and chartered by the United States Armed Forces to perform such services. 

Last year, the Central and Shenandoah Virginia Chapter volunteers assisted military service members and their families with emergency communication services, and delivered 935 emergency communications on their behalf.

Blood Services - Thank you to all of those who donate or have donated their blood and their time to support the Blood Services team. Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs a blood transfusion. In the time it took me to write this, 1800 people needed a blood transfusion in America!

Last year, the Central and Shenandoah Virginia Chapter collected 12,823 units of blood.

Disaster Services – Preparedness & Response:  This program is designed to ensure community planning, preparedness and response for emergencies that might affect us at any time such as: fires, floods, tornadoes and hazardous material accidents.  When a disaster strikes in Central Virginia, Red Cross staff and volunteers arrive on scene to assess the client's needs and determine which types of services and assistance will address those needs.

Last year, the Central and Shenandoah Virginia Chapter volunteers responded to 211 disaster incidents and provided direct disaster relief services to 678 individuals in our service area.  Additionally, 1,250 individuals attended Preparedness Education presentations which increase public awareness by educating the community on how to prevent, prepare for and cope with disasters that may occur.  Additionally, 38,691 individuals accessed preparedness information digitally.

check out the volunteer opportunities - click here

Health & Safety Training Program - Through this program, the Central Virginia Chapter strives to ensure that in an emergency, there are always trained individuals nearby, ready to use their Red Cross skills to save lives.  Examples of training courses include, but are not limited to:  First Aid/CPR/AED, Lifeguarding, Water Safety and the Babysitter's Training course.  In FY19, the Central and Shenandoah Virginia Chapter offered classes to the public and partnered with community businesses to provide training courses and presentations to 13,852 individuals in our service area.

International Services: This program offers tracing and messaging services to those who have been displaced or are seeking information on the whereabouts of family members following international events.  

Red Cross services are available to all residents of regardless of economic status, race, sex, ethnicity, political beliefs or other affiliations.