By Judith Weeks

Clara Baron, the founder of the American Red Cross, once said: “The Red Cross is a part of us – it has come to stay – and like the sturdy oak, its spreading branches shall yet encompass and shelter the relief of the nation.”

Clara Barton selflessly dedicated her life to alleviate suffering. At the beginning of the Civil War, she worked at the U.S. Patent Office. As the war intensified, she quit her job to nurse the wounded, and collect bandages and supplies, then courageously went to the front lines where soldiers recognized this hero, calling her “Angel of the Battlefield”. In 1869, Barton traveled to Switzerland where she learned about the International Red Cross that grew out of the Geneva Convention. Understanding its potential benefits to Americans, she lobbied for support. On May 21, 1881, the American Red Cross was established with Barton as President.

Now, following Barton’s humanitarian mission for 140 years and counting, the American Red Cross provides shelter and comfort to those who have been affected by a disaster; supports the military, their families, and veterans; teaches first aid skills to save lives; and collects 40% of the nation’s blood supply.

Service

During the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Red Cross adapted its procedures to deliver its life-saving services safely, both for volunteers and for those receiving them. Shelters are now in hotels, and boxed lunches are served to ensure social distancing. Contact-free disaster assistance in the form of a debit card is often transferred between volunteer and recipient across the hood of a Red Cross vehicle. At COVID-19 vaccination sites, volunteers help with registration and pass out snacks and water in the recovery area.

Innovation

Today, the Red Cross is leveraging technology, including Geographic Information Systems (GIS), drones, and artificial intelligence to deliver services. Red Cross Mobile Apps and voice-enabled skills/action tools, downloaded to mobile devices from Apple, Amazon, and Google stores, provide expert advice for first aid and disaster relief after earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods. Locating blood drives and making appointments can be made with Alexa and Google.

Hope

During the pandemic, volunteers cannot give hugs, but with social distancing, they still bring a smile and ear to listen. Disaster Volunteers of the Southeastern Pennsylvania chapter of the Red Cross, trained in COVID-19 safety procedures, are ready when called to a local house fire or deployed nationally to floods, hurricanes, and wildfires, giving immediate help for recovery. Dedicated blood donors give life-saving blood and COVID-19 survivors give convalescent plasma to help patients who need it. Others generously donate dollars to support the Red Cross.

The American Red Cross will continue its work through the 21st century and longer, adapting services to meet humanitarian needs, using technology for the delivery of services and communication, and always bringing hope and peace to those who are suffering.

Learn how you can get involved and be part of the Red Cross mission at RedCross.org.