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Red Cross Week

Join us for Red Cross Week and be a hero to those in need - donate blood, volunteer, or make a difference with your support!

Monday

3–9

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEWeek containing May 8 (Monday-start)

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYPhilanthropy

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate and support the incredible work of the Red Cross on May 4, also known as Red Cross Week! This week-long event has been observed since World War II, when the organization's efforts in providing aid and assistance to those affected by the war were first recognized. Today, the Red Cross continues to be a vital humanitarian organization, providing disaster relief, blood donations, and other critical services around the world. Let's take this week to show our appreciation for their dedication and hard work in making the world a better place.

TIMELINE

Red Cross Week Timeline

Founding of the Red Cross

Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross to provide comfort and aid to those in need, following the model of the International Red Cross.

Massive World War I Effort

During World War I, the Red Cross grew immensely, providing wartime relief and medical aid to soldiers and civilians alike.

Inception of Red Cross Week

President Franklin D. Roosevelt proclaimed the first National Red Cross Week to support the organization's efforts during World War II.

Gift of Life Program Launch

The American Red Cross introduced "Gift of Life" program to arrange lifesaving surgeries for children around the world.

Support During Hurricane Katrina

The Red Cross launched one of the largest disaster response efforts in its history in response to Hurricane Katrina.

COVID-19 Relief Efforts

In response to the global pandemic, the Red Cross provided widespread support through blood donation, relief supplies, and financial assistance.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Red Cross Week

Donate blood

One of the best ways to celebrate Red Cross Week is by donating blood. This simple act can help save lives and show support for the important work of the Red Cross.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a local Red Cross event

Check with your local Red Cross chapter to see if there are any events happening during Red Cross Week that you can volunteer at. This is a great way to get involved and give back to your community.

SPREAD

Spread awareness on social media

Use your social media platforms to spread awareness about the important work of the Red Cross during Red Cross Week. Share facts, stories, and ways to get involved with your friends and followers.

HOST

Host a fundraiser

Gather friends and family for a Red Cross themed fundraiser, such as a bake sale, car wash, or charity dinner. All proceeds can go towards supporting the important work of the Red Cross.

ATTEND

Attend a Red Cross training session

Check with your local Red Cross chapter to see if they are offering any training sessions during Red Cross Week. This is a great opportunity to learn life-saving skills and support the mission of the Red Cross.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Red Cross Week is Important

Encourages donations for the Red Cross cause

One of the main goals of Red Cross Week is to raise funds for the organization to continue their lifesaving work. By spreading awareness and showcasing the impact of donations, we can inspire people to give back and make a difference in the lives of those affected by disasters and emergencies.

Raises awareness for the Red Cross organization

Red Cross Week is an important time to bring attention to the work of the Red Cross and the services they provide, such as disaster relief, blood donation, and humanitarian aid. It's a chance to educate others and encourage support for this essential organization.

Highlight the impact of volunteering

The Red Cross relies heavily on volunteers to carry out its mission. During Red Cross Week, we honor and recognize the dedication of these individuals who selflessly give their time and skills to help others in need. It also serves as an opportunity for people to learn about volunteer opportunities with the Red Cross.

Related holidays

American Red Cross Month

An awareness observance in March honoring the humanitarian work of the American Red Cross and encouraging donations and volunteering.

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.

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day

On World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, let's honor the bravery and selflessness of those who provide humanitarian aid around the world.

World Blood Donor Day

Give the gift of life this World Blood Donor Day - every donation has the power to save up to 3 lives!

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