GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The American Red Cross is calling on the community to get involved during Red Cross Month, which is recognized each year in March.
Leaders say there's always a need for blood donations—but that's not the only way you can help the community this month.
Tony Gerheiser, executive director of the West Michigan Red Cross chapter, said community members are encouraged to get involved and help if they're interested.
"Whether that's going out and donating blood, or whether that's providing, you know, comfort to people that had home fires, disasters, or those that are willing to work with our service members when they have emergency needs," said Tony Gerheiser, executive director of the West Michigan Red Cross chapter.
The Red Cross provides financial resources, mental health care, support for military families, blood transfusions and more to help those in need. The organization also aims to educate about emergency preparedness and safety.
Gerheiser said that with the wide variety of services the Red Cross offers, it can't be done alone.
"To do that we need, you know, support from our community. It's by the generosity of our volunteers and our financial donors that we provide all these services for free for the community," he said.
"I would encourage anyone that's interested in Red Cross or learning more about Red Cross contact your local chapter, we have tons of volunteers in here that would love to engage with someone and figure out what the Red Cross does and help them how they can help support their community."
The Red Cross is also focusing on emergency prevention and education this spring. They offer free CPR classes and will be giving out free smoke detectors next month.
You can find local blood drives by going to the American Red Cross's website and entering your zip code here.
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