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American Red Cross Giving Day

A fundraising campaign on the fourth Wednesday of March rallying public donations, blood drives, and volunteering to support the American Red Cross's humanitarian and disaster relief work.

Wednesday
24
March 2027
Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team
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YEARLY DATEFourth Wednesday in March
OBSERVED INUnited States
CATEGORYAwareness
SUBCATEGORYPhilanthropy
ORIGIN

Institutional Initiative

FOUNDING ENTITY
American Red Cross
FIRST OBSERVED
2015
HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

The American Red Cross launched its first national Giving Day on June 2, 2015, as a one-day fundraising campaign to support daily disaster relief efforts. It has since been held annually on the fourth Wednesday of March during Red Cross Month.

View Official Announcementvia prnewswire.com
INTRO

Introduction

Warm up your hearts for American Red Cross Giving Day on March 27! This annual event started in 2015 as a way to rally the American people together in a wave of giving, making an impactful difference in the lives of those in dire need. This crucial 24-hour fundraising event brings into focus the vital humanitarian work of the American Red Cross - which has been providing aid and relief for more than 140 years! Be it through blood drives, emergency response, or lifesaving training, no cause is too big or small. So, come on, everyone! It's always a good day when you're making a world of difference for those in need. Let's make every second count and give hope together on this special day!

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TIMELINE

American Red Cross Giving Day Timeline

American Red Cross Establishment

Humanitarian Clara Barton establishes the American Red Cross, committed to aiding those suffering from disasters and emergencies.

World War I Engagement

The Red Cross significantly expands its efforts during World War I, providing medical care and humanitarian aid.

World War II Outreach

During World War II, the Red Cross contributes greatly to aid efforts, supporting millions of servicemen and women worldwide.

9/11 Response

In response to the September 11 attacks, the Red Cross provides immediate assistance to those affected.

Haiti Earthquake Relief

The Red Cross mobilizes a significant response to the devastating earthquake in Haiti, highlighting their major role in international disasters.

First American Red Cross Giving Day

The American Red Cross marks the first official American Red Cross Giving Day, rallying support for their lifesaving work.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate American Red Cross Giving Day

EDITOR'S PICK

Donate online

Make the most of technology and contribute to the cause right from your home. The Red Cross makes it easy to donate online through their website, where you can pick a specific program to support or make a general donation.

ORGANIZE

Organize a blood drive

Get involved directly by organizing a blood donation event in your community. The Red Cross provides all the necessary resources and support to make this happen. Plus, you'll be potentially saving lives with each pint of blood collected!

START

Start a fundraiser

Tap into the philanthropic spirit of your friends, family, and colleagues by starting a personal fundraiser. It can be as simple as setting up a donation page, organizing a charity run, or even throwing a fundraising party.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer your time

If you're short on cash but have time to spare, think about volunteering for the Red Cross. There are many ways to get involved, from providing disaster relief to aiding in local blood drives.

SPREAD

Spread the word

Use your digital platforms to spread awareness about American Red Cross Giving Day. Sharing information on social media or through emails can generate more donations and alert others to the many ways they can get involved.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why American Red Cross Giving Day is Important

Enhances awareness about the work of the Red Cross

American Red Cross Giving Day serves as an important platform to bring focus on the vital humanitarian work of the Red Cross. It’s a good time to highlight their efforts in providing aid, relief, and training to those affected by disasters and emergencies across the globe.

It's an opportunity to make a difference

American Red Cross Giving Day gives us an opportunity to contribute to a just cause and make a significant impact in the lives of those in dire need. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a world of difference.

Reinforces the spirit of giving

This special day is not just about raising funds but also about stoking the spirit of giving within each of us. It’s a great way to remind ourselves about our shared responsibility towards humanity, fostering compassion, generosity, and empathy.

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