RedCrossPhillyBlog

Category: Events

Playful setting, powerful stories: Red Cross Red Ball celebrates courage and compassion in Philadelphia
By Jenny Farley and Alana Mauger

The 24th annual American Red Cross Red Ball returned to the Please Touch Museum in Philadelphia for the first time in more than a decade.

Against the backdrop of kid exhibits where adults were welcome to play for the night, supporters in their creative cocktail attire gathered to celebrate the Heroes of the evening.

Standing in front of a replica of the Statue of Liberty’s Arm holding her signature torch, Jennifer Graham, the CEO of the American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania (SEPA) region, welcomed the crowd from the podium.

She explained, “What began as a night of elegance and philanthropy has become something more powerful: a celebration of courage, compassion and the extraordinary human spirit that defines our Red Cross community.”

Pictured left is American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania Region CEO Jennifer Graham and pictured right is Red Ball emcee and 76’ers arena host Lee Farrell. They address the Red Ball crowd from the platform at the base of the Statue of Liberty arm and torch replica made from more than 2,000 toys by artist Leo Sewell. Photos by Donn Greenberg and Konrad Jones / American Red Cross

Red Ball host Lee Farrell, an in-arena host for the Philadelphia 76ers and the Philadelphia Union, emceed the event. He told guests about featured delights of the night like the Carousel room, where anyone could ride, the coloring wall where guests could meet Miss Philadelphia Stephanie Skinner, and renowned artist Amir Campbell, who painted a modern masterpiece live in the museum’s Roadside Attractions room as the event unfolded.

Campbell’s original art was then made available for purchase in the silent auction, with all proceeds supporting the mission of the Red Cross.

“How about Amir Campbell?” Farrell said to applause as he turned to address Campbell directly.

“I can barely color inside of the lines and you’re doing that. That’s incredible!”

During the short program before dinner, a different NBC Sports Philadelphia presenter introduced each Hero.

NBC Sports Philadelphia hosts (from left) Danny Pommells, Amy Fadool and Ricky Bottalico introduced the heroes award recipients at Red Ball. Photo by Donn Greenberg / American Red Cross

Former Philly and afternoon drive host on 97.5 The Fanatic Ricky Bottalico gave the first award of the night to legendary radio hosts Preston Elliot and Steve Morrison of The Preston & Steve show on 93.3 WMMR, with a special acknowledgement of unforgettable radio on-air personality Pierre Robert, who died last year.

The Preston & Steve Morning Show has hosted the “I Bleed for Preston and Steve,” blood drive for 20 years, resulting in nearly 22,000 units of blood collected.

“We wouldn’t be able to do this event without the volunteers and the employees of the Red Cross. The event that we put on is an all-night, all-day thing that takes so many people and so many working parts,” Elliot said, while accepting the award.

Morrison added, “Everybody comes to us and tells us stories of people that they’re donating for – that are in the hospital, or babies, or countless stories and it is humbling. It just shows you how wonderful the people in this area are, how wonderful the volunteers of the Red Cross are, that they’re constantly – every year, every time – motivated to come out and actually give of their own bodies to help other people live. It is an amazing thing to see.”

The 93.3 WMMR Preston & Steve Show was recognized for sponsoring 20 years of blood drives and collecting nearly 22,000 blood donations. Pictured on the Please Touch Museum Carousel are (from left) Steve Morrison, Eric Simon, Preston Elliot, Marissa Magnatta, Chuck Damico, Casey Fosbenner and Ryan Shuttleworth. Photo by Konrad Jones / American Red Cross

Danny Pommells, the co-host of the Sixers Talk podcast, presented the second award of the night to retired Pennsylvania State Police Trooper John Finkbiner, who saved the life of one-year-old Carter.

Carter was choking on a cracker when Trooper Finkbiner responded and used his Red Cross training to clear his airway and help him breathe again.

Trooper Finkbiner, who attended the Red Ball with his wife Kimberly, still keeps in touch with Carter’s family and said he’s going to send him presents for his upcoming third birthday.

“I would like to say thank you to everybody. To Jennifer for inviting me here.” (Referring to SEPA CEO Jennifer Graham).

“I was just doing my job that day honestly, and to be recognized is very humbling. I do appreciate everything,” he said.

When asked if he still thinks about the day he saved Carter, he responded it was “like it happened yesterday.”

Retired Pennsylvania State Trooper John Finkbiner, pictured with his wife Kimberly, said, “I’m simply here because I did my job.” The Red Cross honored Trooper Finkbiner at the Red Ball for saving one-year-old Carter from choking. Photo by JennyFarley/American Red Cross.

Amy Fadool, host of Sixers Pre- and Post- Game Live, awarded the third and final award of the night to volunteer firefighter Emily Gindele.

“Being here at the Red Gala is something I never imagined I’d get to experience. It’s a real full circle moment and it means more than I can say. Thank you to my family, my firehouse, my friends and the Red Cross for holding me up and supporting me through everything,” she said.

Gindele nearly died in the car accident that killed her soon-to-be fiancée Colin Reedy.

Doctors told her family she was ten minutes from death. Blood transfusions helped save her.

Emily organized a Red Cross blood drive in Chester County in Colin’s memory. The two were on their way to a fire call when the accident happened.

Colin’s parents attended the Red Ball to support Emily, along with her parents, sister, brother-in-law, brother and boyfriend Christian.

The American Red Cross honored volunteer firefighter Emily Gindele at the Red Ball on March 27. Blood donations helped save Emily’s life after a car accident on the way to a fire call. Being honored “felt like a full circle moment” and “I’m very grateful,” she said. Photo by Konrad Jones / American Red Cross

As Amir Campbell’s painting took shape throughout the night, one bystander remarked, “I don’t understand how you’re doing this!” as the image seemed to magically appear with each brush stroke.

Campbell said he didn’t feel any added pressure painting live for an audience.

“I’m very excited. Everyone gets to experience what it looks like live, to have an artist actually here and painting a moment in real time. You know, absorbing everyone’s energy and fitting it inside of the actual piece.”

The painting ended up being a young girl hugging a teddy bear with a Red Cross on its belly.

Campbell, who is a newlywed and attended the Red Ball with his wife Mallorie, described wanting to paint someone that cherishes the Red Cross.

Artist Amir Campbell painted live during the Red Ball on March 27 at the Please Touch Museum. He said, “When people come up I can actually talk to them and explain what’s going on, and actually more inspiration comes that way.” Photos by Dan Porter and JennyFarley / American Red Cross

“They’re cherishing all their efforts. Everything they did and everything that they’re doing for the community and for the world. I want to take a character and show that love by representing them embracing the Red Cross.”

In Campbell’s painting, you can clearly see a message in the child’s hair. It reads, “Heal the World.”

At the end of the evening, the Red Cross Mass Care Feeding team served soft pretzels, hot chocolate and bottles of water from one of the region’s emergency response vehicles (ERV). This is the same vehicle that has been deployed across the country to help feed people after disasters.

Disaster volunteers Irvin Diaz and Larry Leitner serve water, hot chocolate and soft pretzels out of the region’s emergency response vehicle as guests leave Red Ball. Photo by Dianne Heard / American Red Cross

The Red Ball is made possible through the generosity of our sponsors:
- Mission Sponsors: Independence Blue Cross and AmeriHealth Caritas, Rosenberg and Parker Surety
- Hero Sponsor: Ametek Foundation, Inc.
- Diamond Sponsors: Chubb, Essential Utilities, Quattro, Wawa, Woods System of Care
- Platinum Sponsors: Boston Consulting Group, Cencora, Elliot Lewis, Jefferson Health Plans, The Madden Foundation, NBC Sports Philadelphia, Penn Medicine, Parx Casino, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, TruMark Financial Credit Union and the Masons from University Lodge No. 51.
- Ruby Sponsors: Allan Myers, Barbara Hauptfuhrer, Blank Rome, Brian’s House, Constellation Energy, DSG Global, Duane Morris, Lincoln Financial, P. Agnes, PECO, Philadelphia Insurance Companies, Think Traffic
Visit our Flickr album for more Red Ball photos.
April 4, 2026
Pennsylvania Red Crossers recognized in Harrisburg

By Alana Mauger

Red Crossers from across Pennsylvania gather on the steps in the Capitol rotunda for a photo on May 13, 2025. Photo by Alana Mauger / American Red Cross

On May 13, around 50 Red Crossers from across Pennsylvania brought an urgent message to the State Capitol in Harrisburg: “Help Can’t Wait.”

Jorge Martinez, CEO for the Red Cross Greater Pennsylvania Region, kicked off a press conference on the steps of the Capitol Rotunda.

“Every day across Pennsylvania, families lose homes to devastating fires. Communities face the aftermath of floods and storms. Veterans struggle to access services they desperately need. And patients in our hospitals require lifesaving blood transfusions,” he said. “In these moments of crisis, help can’t wait.”

Martinez shared that, nationally, the Red Cross responds to a new major disaster about every two weeks. These massive events, like storms and wildfires, are on top of home fires that occur multiple times every day. In fact, the Red Cross responded to more than 2,000 local disasters in Pennsylvania last year.

Red Cross Regional CEOs Jennifer Graham (left), Southeastern Pennsylvania, and Jorge Martinez (right), Greater Pennsylvania, speak on the Capitol Rotunda steps in Harrisburg. Photos by Alana Mauger / American Red Cross

Jennifer Graham, CEO for the Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania Region, spoke about more of the work Red Crossers do in the Commonwealth every single day.

“Last year alone, we collected 220,000 units of blood products right here in the Commonwealth,” she said. “Those units became lifelines—supporting surgeries, aiding those battling cancer, providing relief for people living with sickle cell disease and helping save victims of sudden trauma.”

Graham shared a story about how blood was available for Chester County volunteer firefighter Emily Gindel when an automobile accident left her fighting for her life.

Emily and her boyfriend Colin were on their way to a fire call when their car hydroplaned off the road, crashing into a tree. Colin tragically died on impact. Emily sustained a broken back, a fractured skull, a traumatic brain injury—and so much blood lost before she could even reach the hospital. But blood was there when Emily needed it, paving the way for multiple surgeries and months of physical and cognitive therapy.

“Every two seconds, someone in the U.S.—someone like Emily—needs blood. That reality makes our work in the biomedical field not just necessary, but urgent,” Graham shared.

She also talked about the work of the Red Cross in teaching lifesaving skills like CPR, AED and first aid.

“Last year, we trained more than 165,000 people in Pennsylvania, including police, fire and EMTs with 129 first-responder agencies—more than in any other state.”

Graham next introduced Rep. Jared Solomon, whose constituents were impacted by the tragic plane crash in Northeast Philadelphia, to which the Red Cross responded, earlier this year.

“Out of that carnage, out of that chaos, out of that confusion came the Red Cross, came the courage of presence. It’s hard to show up, and the Red Cross, through their courage of presence, showed up, time and time again,” he said.

Watch Rep. Solomon’s full remarks

PA Rep. Jared Solomon (left) and PA Sen. Doug Mastriano (right) recognize the work of Red Cross volunteers on the Capitol Rotunda steps in Harrisburg. Photos by Alana Mauger / American Red Cross

Martinez next spoke about the Red Cross support available to the military community, noting that nearly 800,000 veterans call Pennsylvania home – the fourth largest veteran population in the country. He introduced Doug Mastriano, a retired Army Colonel and 30-year combat veteran, who commemorated Military Appreciation Month.

After the press conference, Senator Mastriano led Red Cross volunteers and staff on a tour of the Senate floor. Later in the day, Red Crossers were recognized for their work on the floor during working sessions of both the Senate and House.

Laura Burke, executive director of the Red Cross Central Pennsylvania Chapter, coordinated the trip to Harrisburg, which she hopes will continue as an annual event and grow in size.

The day’s call to action is simple: the Red Cross relies on generous support from the American public so that the organization can be there when “Help Can’t Wait.”

“Whether it’s through financial contributions, volunteering your time, donating blood, or simply spreading awareness about our mission, your involvement matters,” Martinez said. “In those critical moments when seconds count, the Red Cross must be ready to respond for Pennsylvanians in need.”

Red Crossers on the Senate floor with Sen. Doug Mastriano on May 13, 2025. Photo by Alana Mauger / American Red Cross

May 19, 2025
Red Ball 2025: Art, food, dancing and fun all in support of a lifesaving mission

By Jenny Farley

Scenes from Red Ball on April 5, 2025 at the Bellevue Hotel, Philadelphia. Visit our Flickr album for more images. Photos by Jenny Farley, Donn Greenberg, Dianne Heard, Konrad Jones, Katerina Luchinina, Tatiana Madise, Bernadette Mathis and Alana Mauger / American Red Cross

Along the Avenue of the Arts, guests attended the 23rd annual American Red Cross Red Ball, held for the first time ever at the historic Bellevue Hotel in downtown Philadelphia in the newly renovated Grande Belle ballroom.

Former CBS3 weather anchor Katie Fehlinger has hosted the Red Ball since 2020 and welcomed ball guests under the opulent chandeliers to a night of dancing and delicious food, all in support of the Red Cross mission to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies.

“This very ballroom has actually been hosting Red Cross events dating all the way back to World War II,” she said.

Left: Former CBS3 weather anchor Katie Fehlinger has hosted the Red Ball since 2020. Photo by Konrad Jones / American Red Cross. Right: The Red Cross returns to the Bellevue for Red Ball 2025, previously holding event in the grand ballroom during WWII. Photo by Jenny Farley / American Red Cross

Red Cross Events Specialist Ashley Britton started working on this year’s Red Ball as soon as the last one ended a year ago. This year’s event featured a 360 photo booth, live music and a silent auction which included sports memorabilia from superstar athletes.

Melissa Knox is the supervisor of supplies for the Kitting Department in Biomedical Services. She volunteered at the Red Ball helping bring auction items into the hotel, setting up tables and putting out candles.

“I’m a really big Phillies sports fan, especially the Eagles, so seeing the signed jerseys and stuff from Eagles players was really cool,” she said.

Left: Red Cross Events Specialist Ashley Britton has been working on the gala since last spring. “We’re really excited to be in a new venue,” she said. Right: Biomed supervisor Melissa Knox volunteered at the Red Ball for the first time. “It’s been really nice and the people here have been very helpful,” she said. Photos by Jenny Farley / American Red Cross

Ashley was most excited to see how guests reacted to the art auction, which was new this year.

“We’re excited to see what the bidding looks like, and we have some really great pieces that reflect the Red Cross. We asked our artists who donated to paint under the theme of ‘The Power of Red’ and how that resonated with them,” she said.

Using hues of red and scarlet, Amir Campbell created a painting specifically for the Red Cross art auction. He says he became an artist in kindergarten when a substitute teacher gave him three crayons and a piece of paper and told him to “do something with this.” Amir remembers holding the crayons in his hand and knowing he had to take his art seriously.

His Red Cross painting featured a beautiful child clutching a red box with a red cross prominently displayed.

“You know how you cherish something with all your heart? This young lady – she’s cherishing that moment and being grateful for what the Red Cross is doing globally,” he said.

Artist Amir Campbell donated an original painting to the Red Ball Art auction. He said, “I’m glad that we’re here and I’m glad that I get to be a part of something so beautiful.” with his fiancée Mallorie Medley. They will be married in July, 2025. Mallorie said the painting Amir donated to the Red Cross Art auction is “one of his favorite pieces.” Photo by Tatiana Madise / American Red Cross

Amir attended the Red Ball with his fiancée Mallorie Medley who said they always enjoy the event and love to support such a good cause.

“The Red Cross has helped millions of people, and it feels like as time goes on, the devastation seems to be greater and have a bigger impact, so it’s really impactful what the Red Cross is doing to help try to get through that.”

Guest Randolph Philpotts called the Bellevue an “amazing venue.” He had been to the hotel before, but this was his first Red Ball.

“What you guys have done inside this venue is spectacular. I’m looking forward to a really good night and it looks tremendous. You guys outdid yourselves.”

Randolph has good memories of the Red Cross from his younger days when the organization rapidly responded with help and supplies after a fire broke out in his neighborhood and quickly spread.

“We actually had the Red Cross blanket in the house for quite some time after the fact. It was very sentimental for us,” he said.

Left: Red Ball guest Randolph Philpotts recalled how the Red Cross helped his family when a fire broke out in his neighborhood during his youth. Right: Miss Pennsylvania Noni Diarra, pictured with Red Cross volunteer Janice Winston, volunteered her time to help with Red Ball. Photos by Jenny Farley / American Red Cross

Most of the 65,000 disasters the Red Cross responds to each year are home fires.

Donations raised at the Red Ball go to support all lines of Red Cross service, like blood collection, Service to the Armed Forces and disaster preparedness and response. It also supports the Red Cross House in Philadelphia, the only one of its kind in the country. The Red Cross House provides short-term shelter, food and support to people recovering from a disaster.

Speaking to guests from the stage in front of the ballroom, Jennifer Graham, CEO for the American Red Cross in Southeastern Pennsylvania, reminded them that every dollar raised during the event will help someone in need.

“Your support of Red Ball 2025 ensures that the Red Cross will be there to help the Southeast Pennsylvania community day after day,” she said.

American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania Region CEO Jennifer Graham speaks at Red Ball on April 5 at the Bellevue Hotel in Philadelphia. Photos by Konrad Jones and Jenny Farley / American Red Cross

The Red Ball is made possible by many sponsors. In a video shown to the crowd, Dr. Rich Snyder, chief operating officer at Independence Blue Cross, a Mission Sponsor, spoke of the “kinship” his company feels with the Red Cross.

“Everyone knows that the Red Cross will be there in a crisis, for instance, following a fire, but not everyone knows that the Red Cross is out there helping to prevent fires. Our IBX Blue crew volunteers have joined the Red Cross to install free smoke alarms for those who need it.”

Meg Grant is the director of public affairs and marketing at Amerihealth Caritas, also a Mission Sponsor of the Red Ball. In a video played at the event, she said, “Amerihealth Caritas applauds the tireless work of the Red Cross in delivering help and hope for people in communities in crisis.”

Ninety percent of the Red Cross workforce is made up of volunteers who work hard to fulfill the mission of the Red Cross. Koby Langley, vice president of the Red Cross Northeast Division, recognized the many volunteers in the Red Ball audience by asking for a show of hands.

“On behalf of the entire American Red Cross team at national headquarters in Washington D.C., I’m extremely grateful to all the sponsors, all the donors, most importantly all the volunteers that are here tonight,” he said.

Left: Vice President of the Red Cross Northeast Division Koby Langley brings greetings from Washington D.C. Photo by Konrad Jones / American Red Cross. Right: Red Cross volunteer Jacqui Haar, pictured in the green dress, is shown with her mom Lisa Belgrove in the red dress. Between them, they have more than 50 years volunteering with the Red Cross. Photo by Jenny Farley / American Red Cross

Two of those volunteers were a mom and daughter who have given years of service to the Red Cross. Jacqui Haar, who gave birth to her second child just weeks ago, has volunteered for 20 years. She used to be an instructor and now volunteers for the Red Ball every year. She helped with registration and directed guests on where to go during the event.

“I just like being able to see everybody all dressed up and having a good time and I get to volunteer with my mom which is also a lot of fun,” she said.

Jacqui’s mom Lisa Belgrove has volunteered for the Red Cross for more than three decades in several roles. She said she loves volunteering with her daughter at Red Ball and introduced her to volunteering for the Red Cross when Jacqui was 18 years old.

“I started volunteering teaching CPR and first aid almost 34 years ago, and now I do work for the blood department and I also do Service to the Armed Forces,” she said. Jacqui’s dad served in the Air Force for 28 years.

Stacey Hicks, who was employed as a bartender at Red Ball, looked forward to hearing the “amazing message” of the Red Cross during the night. Stacey’s mom has been a Red Cross volunteer for the past 8 or 9 years.

“I’m very excited.” Pointing to her red earrings she said, “As you can see, I’m already jazzed up and ready to go.”

Left: Stacey Hicks was excited to bartend at the Red Ball. Her mom has been a Red Cross volunteer for years and Stacey wore red earrings in honor of the Red Cross. Right: Red Ball guest Alyssa Dee attended the ball for the first time and plans to come back again. Photos by Jenny Farley / American Red Cross

It was the first Red Ball for guest Alyssa Dee, who like many of the guests came dressed in a stunning red gown, but she said it won’t be her last.

“It’s a beautiful venue. Great people. Great band. Great food. Great everything! I’m happy to be here this evening. I will come back again.”

If you’d like to support the American Red Cross visit our regional website redcross.org/philly. Here, you can make a financial donation, schedule an appointment to give blood or sign up to become a volunteer. See more photos in our Red Ball 2025 Flickr album

April 11, 2025
Red Cross celebrates opening of renovated Spring Garden Campus in Philadelphia

By Alana Mauger

A new feature of the Red Cross Spring Garden Campus is an historical timeline from 1916 to present day that spans the curved hallway connecting the main entrance to the atrium. Photo by Katerina Luchinina / American Red Cross

The American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania Region officially opened its new headquarters with a two-part celebration and ribbon cutting on March 5, 2025.

Already home to Biomedical Services for more than 30 years, the newly renovated Spring Garden Campus now incorporates Red Cross Humanitarian Services work – Disaster Cycle Services, Training Services, Service to the Armed Forces and International Services – under one roof at 700 Spring Garden St. in Philadelphia.

“Right from this building, we lead with heart and hope,” Red Cross Regional CEO Jennifer Graham shared during the ceremony. “Our commitment is community and presence is our promise.”

That commitment was on display Wednesday when partners from across the region joined local and Northeast division Red Crossers to commemorate the opening.

Community partners join American Red Cross officials to cut the ribbon during the evening program at the Spring Garden Campus grand opening on March 5, 2025. Photo by Konrad Jones / American Red Cross

Representing the City of Philadelphia, Dominick Morales, director of the Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management (OEM), said the Red Cross is not only a partner, but a “physical pillar” in the city.

“This new space embodies your commitment by providing a base of operations for safety training to respond to disasters and catastrophes and for blood donation. And unfortunately, Philadelphia and Southeastern Pennsylvania are no stranger to needing those services daily,” he said.

Morales added that the campus “stands as a symbol that service and volunteerism are important because in times of need, we truly need one another.”

Left: Director of the Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management Dominick Morales; Right: Philadelphia Fire Department,Deputy Commissioner Gustav Bauman. Photos by Konrad Jones / American Red Cross

Representing the Philadelphia Fire Department, Deputy Commissioner Gustav Bauman recalled being in an older iteration of the very same Red Cross building 30 years ago on his first day as a firefighter.

“In this building, you’ve provided decades of partnership and service to our whole community,” he said. “Through the application of science, compassion and action, you have exemplified what is success in a community.”

Wrapping up his remarks, Bauman thanked the Red Cross.

“I know that I speak on behalf of the almost 3,700 hearts that make up the Philadelphia Fire Department that we can’t do this – could never have done this – without you.”

Red Cross Blood Services labs are on the second floor overlooking the atrium at the Spring Garden Campus in Philadelphia. Photo by Donn Greenberg / American Red Cross

While much Red Cross disaster work happens outside of the building, Biomedical Services has been serving the Greater Philadelphia community and beyond from Spring Garden Street for more than 30 years.

Several national Red Cross laboratories are unique to Philadelphia and highlight the facility’s state-of-the-art technology. Here, scientists and technicians solve complex immunohematology and platelet transfusion cases; help hospital partners find lifesaving rare blood through the American Rare Donor Program; use molecular testing to match blood at a genetic level; and perform specialized testing for transplants.

Director of Red Cross National Laboratories Dr. Margaret Keller offers guests a behind-the-scenes look at the labs on the second floor of the Spring Garden Campus. Photo by Konrad Jones / American Red Cross

The Spring Garden Campus also includes a new, larger blood donation center with private health history rooms and improved reception and recovery areas. And thanks to evolving technology, the building now has two specialized donation centers that support clinical apheresis and cellular therapy treatments for seriously ill patients.

“Our new donor centers ensure that every blood and platelet donor who walks through our doors has a welcoming, positive experience,” said Dr. Shraddha Babariya, executive director of Red Cross Laboratory Services. “A positive donor experience means donors come back, and repeat donations save more lives.”

Expanded Blood Donation Center at the Spring Garden Campus in Philadelphia. Photo by Dave Skutnik / American Red Cross

Representatives from Red Cross corporate partners West Pharmaceutical Services and Cencora rounded out the evening’s speakers.

“What a fantastic facility! You can feel the passion towards helping the local communities, not just here in Philadelphia, but beyond,” said Eric Green, CEO of West Pharmaceutical Services, which hosts blood drives across the U.S. and supports local disaster responses and the Red Cross sickle cell initiative.

“We’re honored to have our name in the lobby, which is so close to where we started 100 years ago just several blocks from here. But more importantly, our purpose at West is to improve patient lives, and our partnership with American Red Cross is simply a partnership of common purpose,” he shared.

Left: West Pharmaceutical Services CEO Eric Green; Right: Cencora Director of Community Impact and Cencora Impact Foundation Program Director Nicole Gordon. Photos by Konrad Jones / American Red Cross

Like Green, Nicole Gordon, director of community impact for Cencora and program director for the Cencora Impact Foundation, said her organization’s work with the Red Cross “is grounded in our purpose.” Cencora sponsored the new Revolution Conference Room by supporting Red Cross International Services, as well as hosting blood drives and facilitating a Service to the Armed Forces kit build.

“We’re united in our responsibility to create healthier futures, and for us, I couldn’t think of a better way to do that than to partner with the Red Cross,” she said.

Visit our website to learn more about the Spring Garden Campus renovation along with building campaign and recognition opportunities. Visit our Flickr albums for photos from the day and evening events.

Watch media coverage of the American Red Cross Spring Garden Campus Grand Opening celebration on March 5, 2025 in Philadelphia as seen on Fox 29, NBC 10 and Telemundo 62.

March 11, 2025
Red Ball gala supports disaster relief efforts in Southeastern PA

Red Ball photos by Jenny Farley, Dianne Heard, Konrad Jones, Katerina Luchinina, Bernadette Matthis and Tatiana Vlad. See more event photos in our Flickr album.

By Jenny Farley

The 22nd annual Red Ball, at Vie by Cescaphe, brought out a large crowd, excited to celebrate the work of the American Red Cross and the sponsors, volunteers and employees who make it possible to respond to disasters and rebuild lives.

Jennifer Graham, the CEO for the American Red Cross in Southeastern Pennsylvania, addressed Red Ball guests from the stage and spoke of the financial need that is present, with “large disasters happening more and more.”

She said, “During a year of record-breaking disasters, the American Red Cross was there and you helped us get there. Your support makes a difference in the lives of those affected.”

Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania CEO Jennifer Graham. Photo by Katerina Luchinina / American Red Cross.

Each year the Red Ball is made possible by sponsors, including Title Sponsors AmeriHealth Caritas and Independence Blue Cross.

Lorina Marshall-Blake, the President of the Independence Blue Cross Foundation told Red Ball guests, “We share a belief in serving the community with compassion and respect just like the Red Cross. The Red Cross is there for us, all of us, in the most challenging times, and they help us see a brighter future.” At this, the crowd broke out into loud applause.

Independence Blue Cross Foundation President Lorina Marshall-Blake. Photo by Tatiana Vlad / American Red Cross

Tonya Moody, the Vice President of Title Sponsor AmeriHealth Caritas, said, “AmeriHealth Caritas is honored to support the American Red Cross Red Ball because it’s aligned with our mission to help people get care, stay well and build healthier communities.”

AmeriHealth Caritas Vice President Tonya Moody. Photo by Tatiana Vlad / American Red Cross

The Red Ball featured entertainment with a lively band and a thriving dance floor, and dishes that delighted foodies, including hors d’oeuvres, a sushi bar, seafood buffet, and a champagne tower with raspberries floating in the flutes.

Items displayed from a silent auction ranged from sports memorabilia, to an autographed guitar, as well as artwork featuring famous Philly landmarks.

Silent auction highlights included memorabilia signed by Jason Kelce, Taylor Swift, Jalen Hurts and Joel Embiid, as well as Philadelphia-themed art prints. Photos by Konrad Jones, Jenny Farley and Bernadette Mathis / American Red Cross

Guest Kevan Phillips, who attended the Red Ball for the first time, soaked up the sights and smells at the Maduro Cigar Bar located on the venue’s outdoor patio.

“A bunch of beautiful people. Beautiful music. Beautiful food and drinks, and for the cause, it’s important. I love it,” he said.

Brandon Brown, who also hung out on the patio with the Maduro Cigar Club, appreciated getting the opportunity to dress up for a good cause.

He said, “If you look around, everybody in their devastating red, and their tuxedos and even their sneakers, it’s just people having a party for a purpose.”

Brandon said he supports the Red Cross mission of alleviating suffering.

“The Red Cross has always been the first people to respond and oftentimes it’s the water, it’s the blankets, it’s the food. Actually, it’s also the human contact,” that makes all the difference.

Red Ball guests Kevan Phillips (left) and Brandon Brown (right). Photos by Jenny Farley / American Red Cross

CEO Jennifer Graham reminded the crowd that the American Red Cross workforce is 90% volunteer. “Our volunteers bring help and hope everywhere they go,” she said.

Volunteers like Red Ball guest Joyce Gray, who has spent several years as a blood donor ambassador. She said her favorite thing is meeting people. “Seeing all the individuals who come in to donate their blood and how eager and energetic they are to do that.”

Ball guest Joyce Scott has volunteered at the Red Cross House for the past six months. “I love to help people. I love to try to be there for people at their lowest point. To help lift them up.”

Red Cross volunteers Joyce Gray (left), a Blood Donor Ambassador, and Joyce Scott (right) a Red Cross House volunteer. Photos by Jenny Farley / American Red Cross

Katie Fehlinger, the Red Ball Host and Emcee, gave the audience details about the Red Cross House, which is located in University City.

“It’s a disaster recovery center, a safe comfortable place where families stay together following a disaster like a home fire,” she said.

Holly Bi attended the Red Ball for the first time with her husband George. Hearing about the work of the Red Cross throughout the night had a profound impact on her.

“The footprint that they have and the amount of aid that they provide is just an amazing and enormous feat and something like tonight is very important so that they can continue helping out communities all over the world,” she said.

Red Ball guests Holly and George Bi (left) and Jim Heaney (right). Photos by Jenny Farley / American Red Cross

Jim Heaney attended the Red Ball with his wife, who works for Title Sponsor Independence Blue Cross. He said watching the event videos about the increasing number of catastrophes which require help from the Red Cross affected him.

“It’s all the more vital that supporters and volunteers chip in to help make sure that every families’ needs are met when those times do hit,” he said.

Thinking of attending the Red Ball next year? Jim’s parting message may inspire you. “This is my first year and it’s great. It’s a really great location. Nice outdoor space.

Beautiful weather. Lots of friendly people and all around a great evening.”

If you didn’t make it to the Red Ball this year, you can still donate to the Red Cross at redcross.org/donate or sign up to volunteer at redcross.org/volunteertoday.

April 19, 2024
Red Cross House – the center for disaster recovery – celebrates 20 years in Philadelphia

By Alana Mauger

Red Cross House exterior. Photo by Konrad Jones/American Red Cross

Twenty years ago this April, the Red Cross House opened its doors in University City, providing a safe, comfortable place where families can stay together following a disaster. Over that time, nearly 6,000 families from Philadelphia and surrounding communities have started their path to recovery with the American Red Cross.

“Those 6,000 families experienced what is probably the hardest day of their lives” said Regional Red Cross CEO Guy Triano during a Red Cross House anniversary celebration on April 18th. “They’ve just lost nearly everything in a home fire and probably didn’t know where to turn. The Red Cross House represents hope.”

This unique center for disaster recovery provides a safe and comfortable place where families can stay together after a disaster. The Red Cross House is the only facility of its kind in the country. It features 26 bedroom suites, each with its own bathroom and kitchenette. Clients get breakfast, lunch and dinner prepared in an on-site commercial kitchen and are assigned a caseworker that supports them during and after their stay.

“We served nearly a million meals during those 20 years,” said Triano. “More than 17,500 disaster survivors have met with a Red Cross caseworker on their road to recovery.”

The Red Cross House is funded exclusively through donations from individuals and corporations and operates 24/7, 365 days-a-year thanks to the dedication of Red Cross staff and volunteers. The facility was fully renovated during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic when it was not open to clients.

Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney at the Red Cross House 20th Anniversary celebration on April 18, 2023. Photo by Konrad Jones/American Red Cross

Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney was among the dignitaries who joined Red Cross volunteers and staff for the 20th anniversary celebration last week. Kenney, whose father is a retired battalion chief, holds great empathy for those impacted by home fires.

He shared, “Residential fires in rowhouse neighborhoods are really, really dangerous because they often cause damage to houses on either side of them. When you lose everything and you lose a loved one, it’s horrible. You lose all your possessions. It’s so disconcerting, so upsetting. It’s wonderful that this place is here – that the volunteers and staff are here.”

Pennsylvania Senator Vincent Hughes and Philadelphia Council Member Jamie Gauthier joined Mayor Kenney in celebrating the Red Cross House anniversary.

“I remember last year going out to one of my neighborhoods in the southwest, and there was a fire in an apartment complex. People were completely displaced,” Gauthier recalled. “I saw the look of relief in people’s eyes when the Red Cross volunteers and staff came to the scene. And that’s because you all are providing people with compassion in some of their worst moments.”

Distinguished guests at the Red Cross House 20th Anniversary celebration on April 18, 2023. From left: Philadelphia Fire Department Captain Derek Bowmer, Philadelphia Deputy Fire Commissioner Jeffrey Thompson, Wawa Inc. Senior Manager of Media Relations Lori Bruce, Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney, Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania Region CEO Guy Triano, Red Cross Philadelphia Chapter Board Chair Larry Pockers, Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management Director Dominick Mireles, FEMA Region III Administrator Mary Ann Tierney, Philadelphia Council Member Jamie Gauthier and Pennsylvania Senator Vincent Hughes. Photo by Konrad Jones/American Red Cross.

Additional attendees included Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management Director Dominick Mireles, FEMA Region III Administrator Mary Ann Tierney, Deputy Fire Commissioner Jeffrey Thompson and Philadelphia Fire Department Captain Derek Bowmer.

Lori Bruce and Elizabeth Simeone were also at the event representing long-time Red Cross corporate partner Wawa, Inc. and the Wawa Foundation.

“We’re proud to support the Red Cross House since its inception, and we really, truly appreciate everything that you all do,” said Bruce, senior manager of media relations for Wawa, Inc. “We’re grateful for the for the vital role that you all play in responding, supporting and caring for those impacted by disasters. We recognize Philadelphia as our hometown, and to have a resource that’s available right here in our community that’s available to our neighbors shows just how much we really bring brotherly love to this area.”

The celebration wrapped up with a special cake and tours of the facility. To learn more about the Red Cross House, visit our website. Check out our Flickr album for event photos.

Red Cross Philadelphia Board Member Lisa Stokes and Pennsylvania Senator Vincent Hughes cut the ceremonial cake after the program. Lisa and her family were former clients at the Red Cross House years ago after they experienced a home fire. Photo by Konrad Jones/American Red Cross

April 23, 2023
Red Ball gala raises money for Red Cross disaster relief in Southeastern PA

Red Ball photography by Dianne Heard, Konrad Jones, Maxine Mayer and Frances Schwabenland. Visit our Flickr album for more photos.

By Jenny Farley and Ava Arteaga

What began as a sunny, breezy evening turned into a night of intense rain and dropping temperatures that temporarily shut down the outdoor cigar bar space.

The big TV that was showing the Final Four, for sports fans that wanted a quick check-in on their teams, had to be covered in plastic, but the event inside went on in style. The plastic eventually came off when the rain quit and guests could go back outside.

Even a tornado watch didn’t dampen the electricity in the room where everyone in attendance all shared a common bond. A deep love and intense desire to support the American Red Cross through volunteering and donating money.

Ball organizers did find out the safest place for guests to seek shelter in case a tornado touched down. “After all, we’re the Red Cross,” Event Coordinator Ashley Britton said.

When Dr. Erica Patterson arrived in her beautiful red dress, she changed out of her plastic slides to put her dress shoes on inside the entrance where they wouldn’t get wet. She was attending the Red Ball for the first time.

“I’m super excited. I’m all for service, charity and giving back,” she said. Guest Megan Berkebile, who is a chaplain at a senior living center, attended with her boyfriend David Weir. Megan said, “I grew up with the Red Cross. It’s a big part of where I’m from.”

Megan has given blood and even worked as a temporary worker for the Red Cross when she was in school in Western Pennsylvania. David also donates blood regularly. He was inspired to donate when his friend’s mother had bone marrow cancer and needed regular transfusions. He’s a universal donor who “likes giving back.”

Dr. Pamela Moore attended the ball with her friend, board member Lisa Stokes.

“Her family had suffered a fire and the Red Cross was there to assist them and make sure they got back up on their feet. Whenever she calls and asks me to come, I’m going to come,” Pamela said.

Dr. Moore recently retired from a 31-year career in education and has seen the Red Cross in action in her community of Millville, New Jersey.

“A lot of our families have been impacted by fires and homelessness and the Red Cross has always been there to assist those families and to assist with needs.”

Serving as Red Ball host for the third year, author and former CBS3 weather anchor Katie Fehlinger described the importance of the Red Cross mission, responding to disasters locally, nationally and internationally for more than 140 years.

“The Red Cross responds to 60,000 disasters every single year across the country. About 1,000 of those actually happen right here in Southeastern Pennsylvania,” Katie said.

The Red Ball raises money for the important work of the Red Cross in disaster response and supports the Red Cross House in Philadelphia, the only one of its kind in the country.

The Red Cross House is celebrating its 20th year, giving families a safe place to stay in the days after they have lost everything – most times from a fire.

The Red Ball is made possible through many generous sponsorships, including title sponsors Independence Blue Cross and AmeriHealth Caritas.

Tonya Moody, vice president at AmeriHealth Caritas said, “AmeriHealth Caritas is honored to support the American Red Cross Red Ball because it’s aligned with our mission, to help people give care, stay well and build healthier communities.”

Senior Vice President of Independence Blue Cross Peter Panageas said, “Whether you’re blue or whether you’re red, the cross symbolizes something very special.”

The Red Cross is needed now more than ever, and donations are critical to the mission. As Red Cross Regional CEO Guy Triano, told the crowd, “Billion-dollar disasters are happening more and more from coast to coast. In fact, last year alone we had 18 billion-dollar disasters. That’s billion with a “B.”

Guy paid tribute to the people who make up 90% of the Red Cross workforce. Volunteers. “Those are the heroes here in this room tonight,” he said.

Those hero volunteers include Heidi Dampman, who helped with setup at the Red Ball and deployed with disaster relief operations the next day to Mississippi after devastating tornadoes.

Randy Miller, who helped with the Ball’s silent auction, has volunteered in several roles, including the condolence team, disaster mental health and the Red Cross House.

“I’m a retired nurse and being able to do this at 68, to be of service and do so much and have such an amazing team that I work with just really calls to me and lights me up,” she said.

The Red Ball was a sold-out event that brought people together to have fun with selfie stations, delicious food, a silent auction, cigar bar, live music and dancing.

To support the work of the Red Cross, make a financial donation at redcross.org/donate or sign up to volunteer at redcross.org/volunteertoday.

April 8, 2023
Local Red Cross Clubs kick off their year at leadership symposium

By Karen Searle

In September, the Red Cross hosted leadership symposiums for youth who aspire to join or form Red Cross Clubs during the 2022-23 academic year. An in-person symposium was held at the Government Services Building in West Chester, which was attended by 12 youths who represented many different high schools in Montgomery and Chester counties. Several advisors, parents and Red Cross volunteer coordinators were also present. An additional symposium was held virtually for students in Philadelphia.

The symposium in West Chester was an informative and engaging meeting for the youth who learned more about all the Red Cross services. The program lasted about three and a half hours and the youth enjoyed a light dinner and desserts while they were engaged in the program.

Red Cross Youth Engagement Lead Kristen Worman at the registration table ready to welcome leadership symposium participants. Photo courtesy of Volunteer Services

Kristen Worman, a volunteer who serves as the Youth Engagement Lead for the Red Cross in Southeastern Pennsylvania, emceed the event and presented the youth with an overview of the Red Cross Clubs, along with the requirements and expectations of being in a club.

“It’s exciting to see the Red Cross Clubs coming back this year after some were dormant during the pandemic,” said Kristen, who oversees all of the region’s Red Cross Clubs and the six volunteer cooridnators that work as liaisons with the schools and students. “People are back in person, and they know they’re going to stay back person, so the clubs can be more solid in their planning and do more.” Clubs have until Oct. 31 to register for the academic year, and she anticipates that around 25 clubs will be active.

During the event, Kristen explained the requirements of establishing a Red Cross Club in the students’ schools: ensure that they have at least four active members; have an advisor, who must be an adult over the age of 18; secure approval from their school administrator; and have members register on Volunteer Connection, which is the Red Cross digital volunteer platform. The clubs also need to submit a constitution annually and must communicate with their sponsor/coordinator by email regarding their notes and rosters. Clubs are also encouraged to hold at least three activities per year. These can be blood drives, supply collection drives or fundraisers, among others.

The symposium followed a set agenda, and many Red Cross department leads presented valuable information regarding each of their services. They included Jamie Boris from Service to the Armed Forces, Megan Beachy from Biomedical Services, Cissy Wang from International Humanitarian Law, and Sean McKee form Volunteer Services.

Leadership Symposium participants Saniya Manojkumar and Vamsi Nandamuri are Red Cross Club coordinators for their respective schools. Photo courtesy of Volunteer Services.

Along with these Red Cross Service leads, Vamsi Nandaurin, a junior from Downingtown High School, attended and spoke about his Red Cross Club experience. Vamsi has been engaged in his school’s club for about a year and a half and provided participants with great insight on how to get their clubs going.

The youth were very engaged in the program and asked great questions of the presenters. The evening ended with giveaways and incentives to help get the youth leaders off to a good start with their clubs.

Get involved

Red Cross Clubs provide an avenue for young people in middle school, high school and college to apply knowledge and skills to help their communities in need. Check with your school’s activities director or click here to see if your school has a registered Red Cross Club already established.

If your school does not already have a club established, contact our Red Cross Youth Engagement Team at SEPAyouth@redcross.org to learn more about starting a club at your school or exploring alternative ways that you can support the Red Cross mission.

October 24, 2022
Red Ball returns for 20th anniversary in Philadelphia

By Sam Antenucci, Ritta Robinson and Alana Mauger

After a two-year hiatus, Red Ball – the signature, formal, invited gala of the American Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania Region (SEPA) – returned for its 20th anniversary on April 2. Presented by Independence Blue Cross and AmeriHealth Caritas, the sold-out gala was held at Vie by Cescaphe on Broad Street in the heart of Philadelphia between Center City and Fairmount. The evening featured rotating live bands courtesy of CTO Artists, dancing, a silent auction, an outdoor cigar bar and, of course, fabulous cuisine.

Check out Red Ball photos on Flickr!

Red Ball host and emcee Katie Fehlinger.
Matthew Ramer/American Red Cross

“It is so good to see everyone now that they’re not on a flat screen!” exclaimed Mary Ann Milner, Red Cross SEPA director of development, to kick off the short but impactful formal program. Attendees whole-heartedly agreed, with exclamations of “we’re not on Zoom!” and “don’t forget to mute your mic!” heard throughout the evening from the crowd.

Red Ball helps fund the Red Cross disaster response throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania, including the Red Cross House – The Center for Disaster Recovery – in Philadelphia. Over the past two decades, the Red Cross House has provided a safe place to stay, hot meals and support services to thousands of families rebuilding their lives after a disaster.

“The Red Cross House is a special place,” said author and former CBS3 anchor Katie Fehlinger, who served as the Red Ball host and emcee. “It provides a safe and comfortable place where families can stay together after a disaster, like a home fire. In an average year, the Red Cross House serves over 60,000 meals for more than 300 families and provides over 20,000 overnight stays.”

During a video presentation, attendees met Lisa Stokes, a mother of two who stayed at the Red Cross House following a fire in her home. Lisa also attended the gala as a special guest.

“It was the first time in my life that we were homeless, that I was not able to provide for my children,” she shared. “If you’ve never watched everything leave you, and to find your way back, that affects you differently.”

Lisa Stokes stands to be recognized following the video presentation at Red Ball.
Kacie Skutnik/American Red Cross

Lisa didn’t just lose her home; she lost medical devices, like feeding and breathing machines, needed to care for her daughter who requires around-the-clock nursing care.

“We had to get all of that stuff back and in a hurry,” she said. The Red Cross “never dealt with a family like mine before. They really go out of their way to be a part of the process to get you back on your feet. It’s something that should be in every state and be a part of every community.”

Watch Lisa’s video on You Tube.

“When a family like Lisa’s arrives at the Red Cross House, it starts a new story – one in which fear turns into hope and despair turns into determination,” said Guy Triano, regional CEO for Red Cross SEPA. “If you each help one family, think of what we could do.”

To close the formal portion of the program, Philadelphia Fire Commissioner Adam Thiel made passionate remarks about the work of the fire department and critical role of the Red Cross in a family’s recovery.

Philadelphia Fire Commissioner Adam Thiel.
Matthew Ramer/American Red Cross

“While this is a celebratory occasion for 2022, for the 3,000 women and men of the Philadelphia Fire Department and Office of Emergency Management, this year got off to a tragic start,” he shared. “The world saw what we already knew with the tragic death of 12 of our neighbors on Fairmount on January 5th…that our city – this great and wonderful city – has a horrible fire problem.”

Commissioner Thiel shared some startling statistics. Last year, 200 people were injured in Philadelphia home fires; 37 tragically lost their lives. More than 2000 people – about 700 families – were burned out of their homes. Thankfully, many of those families were provided by recovery support from the Red Cross.

“The Red Cross is there, two to three times every single day to provide families with shelter, resources, food and emotional support,” shared Fehlinger. “This help has been provided because of individuals in this room who help to ensure that the Red Cross will be there in the upcoming year. The Red Cross is not government funded; it’s funded by people like you.”

To support the work of the Red Cross, visit our Ways to Donate webpage. To learn about volunteer opportunities, visit redcross.org/volunteertoday.

Header photos by Donn Greenberg, Dianne Heard, Matthew Ramer, Frances Schwabenland and Kacie Skutnik.

April 16, 2022
Red Cross Offers New Opportunity to Help Save Lives in Montgomery County
By Dave Skutnik and Alana Mauger

Long-time platelet donor Rich Mazur (center), of Hatfield cuts the ribbon on the new American Red Cross Blood Donation Center in Horsham on May 26. Pictured (from left) Andree Baylor-Lloyd, Red Cross director of fixed site collections; Helen Munizza, Red Cross regional donor services executive; David Poindexter, board chair, Red Cross Philadelphia Chapter; Guy Triano, regional CEO, Red Cross Southeastern Pennsylvania; phlebotomists from the Red Cross collections team; Jennifer Graham, executive director, Red Cross Delaware Valley Chapter; Mark McCouch, Horsham Township Council president; William Whiteside III, Horsham Township Council vice president; and William Gallagher, Horsham Township councilman. Photo by Sandi Yanisko

People wanting to make a lifesaving difference in Montgomery County have the chance to donate blood and platelets at the new Horsham American Red Cross Blood Donation Center. The new donation center is now collecting blood and platelet donations for patients, such as those battling cancer, accident victims, transplant recipients and those living with sickle cell disease.

A formal ribbon cutting was held on morning of May 26 at the donation center, located at 116-G Welsh Road. This new center replaces the location previously open in nearby Willow Grove. Jennifer Graham, executive director, Red Cross Delaware Valley Chapter, officiated the ceremony, and long-time platelet donor Rich Mazur, of Hatfield, cut the ceremonial ribbon. They were joined by Red Crossers Guy Triano, regional CEO; David Poindexter, Philadelphia Chapter board chair; Andree Baylor-Lloyd, director of fixed site collections; and Helen Munizza, regional donor Services executive, as well as phlebotomists from the Red Cross collections team.

Horsham Township officials also attended, including Mark McCouch, council president; William Whiteside III, council vice president; William Gallagher, councilman; William Gildea-Walker, township manager; Dennis Haggerty, director of administration; Michael Shinton, director of codes and community planning; William Daly, chief of police; and Mary Marass, public relations clerk.

Having a readily available blood supply is vital for patients whose survival depends on transfusions. Donating blood is essential to community health, and volunteer donors are the only source of blood for those in need. By making an appointment to give blood or platelets at the Horsham American Red Cross Blood Donation Center, donors can feel good knowing that they may be helping patients not only in their community, but also their family and friends across the nation.

“This much larger donor center will allow us to collect more blood products to supply to hospitals all over the Delaware Valley,” said Graham. “The blood products collected here are needed for many different reasons. Accident and burn victims, heart surgery patients, organ transplant patients, and those receiving treatment for leukemia or sickle cell disease may all need blood.”

Because of space constraints, the Red Cross was only able to collect platelets, which are in high demand by local hospitals, at its former donation Center in Willow Grove.

“Platelet collection will continue to be one of our top priorities, said Graham. “A platelet donation takes about two to three hours, and donors are encouraged to relax during the donation – videos, television and wireless internet are available here at our new location.

Platelets are the clotting portion of blood and are needed for many reasons, but they are primarily given to cancer patients. These tiny cells have a very short shelf life – just five days from the time they are donated – so there is a constant, often critical, need for new and current donors to give to keep up with hospital demand for platelets.

In addition to these critical platelets, this new, larger donation center will provide donors additional opportunities to give whole blood and Power Red donations as well.

“Eligible donors with types O, A negative and B negative blood are urged to make a Power Red donation here in Horsham. Power Red donors give a concentrated dose of red blood cells during a single donation, allowing them to maximize their impact,” shared Graham.

The Horsham Blood Donation Center is open daily, including most holidays:
- Monday and Tuesday: 11:45 a.m.-8 p.m.
- Wednesday: 10:45 a.m.-7 p.m.
- Thursday through Sunday: 7:15 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
In addition to the Horsham Blood Donation Center, individuals will also continue to be able to give blood at Red Cross blood drives across the Southeastern Pennsylvania region.

Inside the new American Red Cross Blood Donation Center in Horsham. Check out the full photo album on Flickr. Photos by Sandi Yanisko
May 27, 2021