May 8 is World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, a time to recognize the work of Red Cross and Red Crescent volunteers and staff who are responding to emergencies and crises all around the world. Every day, Red Crossers are out in local communities, helping those in need and making a difference in the lives of others. This year, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is asking people to demonstrate acts of kindness through the #BeHumanKIND campaign.
World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is an opportunity to show gratitude to the more than 14 million volunteers for their dedication to the humanitarian cause and Fundamental Principles and to thank them for their kindness, bravery and selflessness.
“We know the world can feel tough and scary right now. These past months and years have been marked by multiple crises that have spared no one and have hit the most vulnerable people the hardest —from escalating conflicts, COVID-19, the climate crisis and humanitarian emergencies,” the IFRC said in a statement.
IFRC says, despite the challenges, there’s so much hope and humanity can be found in acts of kindness.
Amid the unbearable suffering and tragedy of the Ukraine crisis, Red Crossers have sprung into action, helping the most vulnerable in times of need. From providing emergency aid to people seeking safety and to improving conditions for those in harm’s way and offering comfort and care to those who’ve fled the conflict, the Red Cross is there with open arms.
More than 42,000 volunteers and staff are working tirelessly to help people and communities impacted by the devastation in Ukraine. Their work is particularly evident at border crossings and train stations. Under mortal danger to themselves, these Red Cross teams are working tirelessly to help people and communities impacted by conflict. By offering a warm meal after a harrowing journey, providing emotional support to those who are suffering or providing critical items to mothers and children, Red Crossers continue to show their kindness and dedication.
Red Cross officials say that acts of kindness are all around us and each act, no matter how big or small, matters. Caring for others makes a huge difference in the lives of others and acts of kindness have the power to spark a ripple effect, to multiply, to spread across communities, countries and the whole world.
“We believe in the power of kindness. So this World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, we're celebrating all types of acts of kindness and showing how, together, they have truly global impact,” they concluded.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
