Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Sept. 26, 2024) — The American Red Cross of Utah is teaming up with Calvary Baptist Church to supply groceries for the church’s food pantry, a vital resource for families facing hunger in the Salt Lake City community. This effort marks an ongoing partnership that began with a joint mission to increase the number of Black blood donors across Utah.
This collaboration not only addresses the pressing issue of food insecurity but also strengthens the bond between the Red Cross and Calvary Baptist Church. Both organizations are dedicated to supporting the community and improving residents’ quality of life. The Red Cross will deliver $2,500 worth of groceries on Friday, Sept. 27, at noon, at Calvary Baptist Church, located at 1090 S. State St. Media members are welcome to attend.
“Our goal is to serve and uplift our community by ensuring families have access to essential resources,” said Jeremiah Lafranca, Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Utah Greater Salt Lake Chapter. “Working alongside Calvary Baptist Church allows us to extend our services to those who need them most.”
Rev. Dr. Oscar T. Moses, Calvary Baptist Church pastor, expressed gratitude for the ongoing collaboration: “This partnership highlights the strength of our collective efforts to meet the needs of our community. We are thankful to the Red Cross for joining us in this mission to provide hope and sustenance to families in need.”
Supporting the Diabetes Program
In addition to groceries, the Red Cross is providing crucial resources for Calvary Baptist Church’s diabetes program, including healthy cookbooks, smart weight scales, food scales, resistance bands, pedometers and fitness watches. “Diet and exercise are fundamental to managing diabetes and preventing complications,” Lafranca said. “We want to equip Calvary Baptist Church’s program with the necessary tools for those battling diabetes.”
Funding for the groceries and diabetes program supplies was provided by Red Cross Biomedical Services. Individuals with diabetes who take insulin or oral medications are eligible and encouraged to donate blood.
Significance of Black Blood Donors
Sickle cell disease predominantly affects individuals of African descent. These patients often require regular blood transfusions to manage their condition effectively. While donors from all racial or ethnic groups can potentially be a match for sickle cell patients, about one-third of all African Americans possess unique blood characteristics that best match those with sickle cell disease.
Donors can schedule an appointment through the Red Cross Blood Donor App, by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). All who come to give blood Sept. 16-30 will get a $15 e-gift card to their merchant of choice. Visit RedCrossBlood.org/Fall for details. Blood donors from Oct. 1-31 will receive a $10 Amazon.com Gift Card by email. Plus, automatic entry for a chance to win one of three $5,000 gift cards. See details at RedCrossBlood.org/Treat.
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.