March 28, 2024

Branstad to make Red Cross proclamation

Gov. Terry Branstad was scheduled today to sign a proclamation making March American Red Cross Month in Iowa.

March was first proclaimed as Red Cross Month 70 years ago by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. During Red Cross Month, the American Red Cross recognizes the nation’s Everyday Heroes who give of themselves and in some way help their communities.

“Please remember those who help all of us here in Iowa by giving their time to help their neighbors,” said Leslie Schaffer, Regional Chief Executive of the Red Cross serving Greater Iowa. “We want to thank our heroes during Red Cross Month – our volunteers, blood donors, class takers and financial supporters who help us assist those in need.”

In Iowa, the Red Cross works through its 54 employees and 2,882 trained volunteers to provide disaster assistance, life-saving blood products, 24-hour support to members of the military, veterans and their families, and training in CPR, aquatics safety and first aid.

“Red Cross Month is a great time for people to become part of the Red Cross and there are many different ways to do it,” Schaffer said. “They can develop preparedness plans for their households, become Red Cross volunteers, give blood, or take Red Cross classes, just to name a few.”