The Red Cross

When referring to the Red Cross, it is important to make a clear distinction between the American Red Cross and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. The former is restricted primarily to action and influence in the United States; the latter is comprised of over 190 branches from local societies. The International Federation serves as a coordinator of sorts, working closely with the branches from the various states to develop and implement relief efforts for the most downtrodden among us.

Most people associate the American Red Cross with some form of disaster relief. While this is the case - the American Red Cross is frequently one of the first governmental or non-governmental organizations to be found on scene. In the case of hurricanes that struck they city and surrounding areas of Houston, Texas, the America Red Cross certainly did provide forms of disaster relief ranging from food and clothing to technology and help securing additional governmental resources. However, they also provide educational classes for people wanting to protect themselves in the future; they address issues of housing, sanitation, and medical care. Though the American Red Cross is typically seen in our country as the one and only source of disaster relief and recovery, their scope of practice goes far beyond this as they work in tandem with the international community to improve the quality of life for all.