As we enter the spring storm season, it is important to remember not only our own safety when flood and tornado warnings are posted, but also the needs of others who are less fortunate. From flood to fire to tornado victims, American Red Cross donations help supply many needed items to victims across the country. In the form of blood transfusions and monetary gifts, American Red Cross donations are literally life saving. In the form of much needed household and clothing items, gifts from Red Cross donation centers provide a sign of hope for the many people who find themselves without a home after a fire or natural disaster.
Used clothing donations are an important part of the recovery process for many families. And while many people simply keep closets and dresser drawers stuffed full of clothes that are the wrong size or simply no longer worn, the American Red Cross clothing pick up centers depend on people taking the time to empty out those closets and dressers. By getting rid of the items that you no longer use, you can impact a number of families. Consider some of these facts and figures about the impact that charitable donations have on the people in our country, as well as the economy:
- 3% of American income is given to charities each year.
- 70% of people in the U.S. give to charity every single year.
- The American National Red Cross is the 13th largest U.S. charity when these groups are ranked by private donations. In fact, it received $687 million in 2014 in private donations.
- $666.1 billion is the annual amount contributed to the U.S. economy by non-profits.
- The American Red Cross provides relief for families and communities in the form of blankets, food, blood, and shelter 24 hours per day, 365 days a year.
It should not have to take a major weather disaster to remind Americans that it is important to give to those who are in need. The fact of the matter is, however, it often requires a major event to help many Americans remember that there are many people in this country who are far less fortunate than we are.
