Shake a bucket – and help boost work of Red Cross
With wars in Gaza and Ukraine and humanitarian crisis in Sudan and
Yemen making headlines worldwide, the work of the Red Cross is as important as ever.
Red Cross Week runs from May 8 to May 14 and ties in with World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day, which is celebrated on May 8 each year.
The week highlights the Red Cross’s global impact and encourages public participation through events and donations.
The idea for the Red
Cross originated from
Henry Dunant, a Swiss businessman who could not stand the suffering of soldiers at the Battle of Solferino in 1859.
He was born on May 8 – hence that is when Red Cross and Red Crescent Day is commemorated.
Dunant’s efforts led to the International Committee of the Red Cross formation in 1863. This event led to the adoption of the Geneva
Conventions, which laid down the legal standards for humanitarian treatment during the war.
Over the years, the Red Cross has evolved to meet the world’s changing needs. Clara Barton, founded the American Red Cross in 1881.
Early initiatives included aiding survivors of the Titanic disaster in 1912 and providing support during and after the First World War.
Prisoners in the Second War War were sent Red Cross parcels
The Red Cross provides international aid – including food and medical care – without discrimination.
It helps people around the world in emergencies and support for refugees and survivors of trafficking and those facing chronic hunger.
In the UK, fundraising focuses on Red Cross bucket collections and
Open Gardens in aid of the humanitarian force.
Thornley House, Kirky Cottage and Stagshaw House, all in Northumberland, are open to the public as is Chelmsford Lodge in Eastbourne and The Priory in Colchester.
Letchworth Village Gardens and Brockholds Manor in Hertfordshire are also open.
Look out for buckets in your local supermarkets and in street collections.