Make a Tax-Deductible Gift to the American Red Cross

Make a Tax-Deductible Gift to the American Red Cross

Before the End of the Calendar Year

Across UTAH (December 29, 2009) -- The American Red Cross in Utah issues a call for donations. As 2009 draws to a close, the Red Cross looks to its generous donors – people who can make a tax-deductable donation -- who can save the day for families devastated by home fires and other disasters. Visit www.redcross.org/gifts to make a donation or learn more. Fast facts for donors:



* These have been turbulent economic times for families, businesses and for the Red Cross and other non-profits, with more and more people seeking help. History has proven that when Americans are in need, America responds. We are encouraging people to make a tax-deductable donation to the American Red Cross.
* The Red Cross also has a Gifts that Save the Day holiday giving campaign that makes it possible for people to “save the day” for those in need. Through gifts at www.redcross.org/gifts, people can make a donation this holiday season that could provide food and shelter for a disaster victim for a day; a military comfort kit with a robe, phone card and other supplies for a wounded warrior; or a month of basic necessities for a family in another country who lost everything in a disaster.
* It’s important to remember that the biggest disaster threat to families across our nation every day isn’t floods, hurricanes or tornadoes; it’s fire. As temperatures throughout the country plunge to single digits, many families are struggling to find the means and/or alternative methods to heat their homes.
* Last year, the American Red Cross responded to more than 63,000 fires. On average, nearly 47,000 fires occur during the winter holidays. The Red Cross in Utah responded to 114 disasters, about 90% of them were home fires.
* When families flee their burning homes, the Red Cross is on the scene, providing them with basic necessities – a warm place to stay, hot meals, comfort and support.
* The Red Cross is doing everything it can to increase capabilities, while at the same time seeking to hold down costs. The Red Cross is committed to making the best use of donor dollars, and is proud of the fact that 92 cents of every Red Cross dollar was spent on humanitarian services or programs for those in need. The Red Cross also meets the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance’s Standards for Charity Accountability.
* Utahns can make donations to their local chapters if desired. Visit www.utahredcross.org and click on “Across Utah” to find information about local Utah Chapters or call the numbers listed below.