March 2024: Red Cross Month

WHEREAS, during American Red Cross Month in March, we celebrate the humanitarian spirit of Michigan and reaffirm our commitment to ensure no one faces a crisis alone; and,

WHEREAS, caring for one another is at the heart of our state and exemplified by the people of Michigan, whose acts of kindness through the Red Cross provide help and hope in difficult moments; and,

WHEREAS, this continues the lifesaving legacy of Clara Barton, who founded the Red Cross more than 140 years ago to prevent and alleviate human suffering; and,

WHEREAS, the Red Cross provides emergency shelter, food, and comfort for families displaced by fires and other disasters and ensures lifesaving blood is available for cancer patients, accident victims, and people with sickle cell disease and other life-threatening conditions; supports military members and veterans, along with their families and caregivers; provides training for those who want to learn vital skills like first aid and CPR; and delivers international humanitarian aid and reconnects loved ones separated by crises around the world; and,

WHEREAS, every day, these ordinary individuals lend a helping hand to make an extraordinary difference for neighbors in need; and,

WHEREAS, the support, volunteerism, and generous donations for the Red Cross in Michigan are critical to the resilience of communities across the state; and, 

WHEREAS, we hereby recognize this month of March in honor of all those who fulfill Red Cross founder Clara Barton’s words, “You must never think of anything except the need and how to meet it.”  

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 2024 as Red Cross Month in Michigan.