Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Supports Red Cross with Over $7 Million Donation

A Generous Contribution to Strengthen Humanitarian Efforts

In a remarkable show of solidarity and compassion, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has made a substantial donation exceeding $7 million to the American Red Cross. This generous contribution is set to bolster various critical initiatives, including blood collection services, support for individuals afflicted with sickle cell disease, and disaster response efforts across the United States.

The official announcement was made by the American Red Cross on October 5, 2026, highlighting the ongoing collaborative history between the two organizations. With this $7.047 million donation, The Church aims to enhance resources available to the Red Cross, particularly in its Blood Services program. Among the initiatives funded through this donation is the acquisition of 50 new Power Red collection machines. These advanced machines allow eligible donors to contribute two units of red blood cells in a single donation, while returning their plasma and platelets. This efficiency not only maximizes the impact of each donation but also significantly aids those in critical need of blood transfusions.

In addition to the financial support directed towards blood collection, the Church's donation includes $2 million specifically allocated to the Red Cross Sickle Cell Initiative. This ongoing program has made significant strides since its inception in 2021, working to increase the availability of closely matched blood for individuals living with sickle cell disease. The initiative has successfully raised the number of annual blood donations from Black and African American donors by an impressive 89%, while also increasing the donations utilized for sickle cell patients by 91%. This is crucial as many individuals with sickle cell disease require specific blood types for effective treatment.

Bishop W. Christopher Waddell, presiding bishop of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to support the Red Cross's mission. He emphasized the Church's commitment to caring for neighbors, lifting burdens, and instilling hope in families navigating through challenging times.

Further amplifying their humanitarian contribution, the Church has also pledged $850,000 to support Red Cross disaster relief operations, particularly following Super Typhoon Sinlaku, which struck in April. This funding highlights the Church's proactive approach in responding to urgent humanitarian needs caused by natural disasters.

The donation will also facilitate the deployment of four new emergency response vehicles that play a pivotal role in disaster-stricken areas. These vehicles enable Red Cross volunteers to swiftly deliver meals, water, relief supplies, and critical information to communities that require immediate assistance following a crisis.

The alliance between The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the American Red Cross has deep historical roots, tracing back to the late 1800s when Clara Barton, the founder of the Red Cross, collaborated with Emmeline B. Wells, the president of the Relief Society. This longstanding partnership has fostered a spirit of cooperation centered around humanitarian aid, engaging communities in meaningful ways.

Since 1996, the Church has been a driving force in supporting Red Cross blood drives, emerging as the largest single contributor to these initiatives. Last year, Church members donated an astounding 94,100 units of blood through nearly 3,000 drives, illustrating their unwavering commitment to saving lives and supporting their fellow citizens.

As a leading nonprofit organization, the American Red Cross relies heavily on volunteers and donations from public entities to fulfill its mission of providing disaster relief, blood supply, and humanitarian assistance to those in need. The partnership with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints not only exemplifies a strong commitment to community service but also illustrates the profound impact that collaborative efforts can have in addressing urgent humanitarian concerns.

For more information about the American Red Cross and its wide array of services, visit their official website at redcross.org or follow them on social media platforms. This donation is yet another testament to how faith-based organizations can forge partnerships that create lasting change and support for the common good.