SALT LAKE CITY — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is donating $5.1 million to the American Red Cross, the organizations announced on Thursday.
The funds will be used for vital initiatives such as blood donation programs, disease treatment, and the purchase of new equipment, according to a news release from the Red Cross of Utah.
"Through our collaboration, we are increasing blood donations, advancing sickle cell disease treatment and strengthening our ability to bless millions of lives," said Blaine Maxfield, managing director of the church's Welfare and Self-Reliance Services. "By uniting our efforts, we extend the Savior's love to those in need."
The relationship between the American Red Cross and the Church of Jesus Christ has existed for more than a century, beginning during the Spanish-American War in 1898 with the connection between Red Cross founder Clara Barton and Emmeline B. Wells, who later served as president of the church's Relief Society.
Currently, the church is the largest single contributor to American Red Cross blood drives, according to the agency, with Latter-day Saints donating 97,000 units of blood yearly.
"Over the past three decades, more than 1 million units of blood have been collected from over 37,000 Church-hosted drives," reads a news release. Church members have also assisted with disaster relief across the United States.
"The church's donation will support Red Cross efforts and initiatives in Utah and across the country," said Heidi Ruster, CEO of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. "But this partnership goes far beyond funding. It's a testament to our shared dedication to serving and supporting those in need."
