"I request that during that month (March) our people rededicate themselves to the splendid aims and activities of the Red Cross."
–President Franklin D. Roosevelt, first Presidential Proclamation of March as Red Cross Month, 1943

In 1943 President Roosevelt, in his role as honorary Red Cross Chairman, declared the entire month of March "Red Cross Month" as a fundraising effort and volunteer recruitment drive supporting our vital activities during World War II.  As the need for our services has remained strong, the U.S. President has customarily issued a proclamation each year declaring March as Red Cross Month. 

Here at our Chapter, the tradition serves as an excellent opportunity for the community to promote our humanitarian mission and recognize the dedicated volunteers who play such a vital role throughout Greater New York.  By responding to disasters, teaching lifesavings skills and offering preparedness training in each of the five boroughs and in Orange, Putnam, Rockland and Sullivan Counties in the lower Hudson Valley, our volunteers help us fulfill our mission.

As a testament to our volunteers and employees'  work in each of these communities, Red Cross Month is proclaimed by Borough Presidents and County Executives throughout our Greater New York jurisdiction.  Check below for special events scheduled in your area.