Roles & Responsibilities of the Red Cross in Los Angeles

The American Red Cross (ARC) is an organization that provides assistance in times of emergency. In addition to disaster relief, local branches of the ARC offer other services in many communities. Greater Los Angeles residents rely on the local branch of the ARC for a variety of educational and humanitarian services.

Donations

• As part of the ARC's mission to provide emergency services to victims of disasters, the Los Angeles branch of the Red Cross collects donations for disaster victims throughout the world. It also partners with other Red Cross branches and sponsors fundraising drives and activities to allow people to donate directly to the Red Cross branch that provides services in the affected area.

Classes

• The Los Angeles American Red Cross offers a range of health and safety classes. These classes prepare community members to care for people in times of emergencies, develop basic first-aid skills and work as caregivers, babysitters or certified lifeguards. In addition to offering classes to individuals, both on-site and online, the Red Cross of Los Angeles also sends instructors to community centers, workplaces or other venues where individuals wish to organize a first-aid or other type of class.

Emergency Relief

• Los Angeles residents and residents of neighboring communities can rely on the Los Angeles Red Cross to provide emergency and recovery relief for victims of earthquakes, fires, floods, hazardous material spills, accidents, terrorist attacks and other natural and man-made disasters. The Red Cross of L.A. maintains supplies and a cadre of trained volunteers who can assist people with food and shelter, clothing and other basic necessities in times of disaster. This also includes health services and mental health counseling.

Communications

• Residents of Los Angeles who serve as members of the United States Armed forces can maintain communications with their families through the Los Angeles branch of the ARC. The ARC offers around-the-clock emergency communications together with family counseling, social service referrals and emergency financial assistance when necessary.

Blood

• The Los Angeles branch of the Red Cross collects, processes and distribute blood donations and blood products. It organizes blood drives and maintains blood collection centers where people can come to donate blood. The Red Cross then distributes the blood to hospitals in the area as well as health facilities in other areas that may not have a sufficient blood supply.