LOS ANGELES, February 28, 2025 — The American Red Cross Los Angeles Region is kicking off its annual Red Cross Month celebration in March with Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier’s iconic Pacific Wheel illuminating the evening red on Saturday, March 1, 2025. The event will coincide with Pacific Park’s inaugural Heroes Day, which will also honor first responders and recognize their crucial role in the community.

Watch From Home: Watch live stream of the Pacific Wheel Light Up Red (pacpark.com/live)

Red Cross Month is a national tradition that began in March 1943 when President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued the first Red Cross Month proclamation — and each U.S. president has followed ever since.

"Red Cross Month is a time to celebrate those in our community who rise to the occasion during emergencies," said Joanne Nowlin, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region. "With intensifying extreme weather and nearly twice as many major disasters as a decade ago, our local heroes make relief and hope possible. They provide essential health and mental health services, emergency lodging, food, and financial assistance. We invite everyone to join their efforts by donating, volunteering, giving blood or platelets, or taking a lifesaving skills course."

Join the Red Cross Month celebration by making a financial donation at redcross.org/GivingDay on March 26 to support people with disaster services such as emergency shelter, food, relief supplies, basic health care, emotional support and financial assistance.

JOIN A REWARDING DAY OF GIVING BACK The Red Cross is also helping to support the health of communities by installing free smoke alarms and sharing home fire safety information with families in at-risk communities through its Sound the Alarm events. Volunteers are needed for events in East LA, Lomita and South LA. No experience is necessary; training will be provided. Register and learn more at redcross.org/losangelesevents

Sound the Alarm, East LA

March 15, 2025

8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sound the Alarm, Lomita

March 22, 2025

8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sound the Alarm, South LA

April 5, 2025

8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

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/la or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.