WHEREAS, March is American Red Cross Month, when we recognize the compassion of people in Richmond, California, and reaffirm our commitment to care for one another in times of crisis; and
WHEREAS, American Red Cross volunteers have stepped up to deliver relief and care across our country and around the world, bringing out the best of humanity in times of crisis as Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross, did over 140 years ago; and
WHEREAS, the volunteers, blood and platelet donors, and supporters shine a beacon of hope in people’s darkest hours —delivering shelter, food and comfort during disasters; providing critical blood donations for hospital patients; supporting service members, veterans and their families; saving lives with first aid, CPR, AED and other skills; or delivering international aid and reconnecting loved ones separated by global crises; and
WHEREAS, with 1148 volunteers in Contra Costa County, the American Red Cross assisted or responded to 101 disasters, assisting 190 families; and through our Sound the Alarm program, the American Red Cross installed 778 smoke alarms, making 241 homes safer, and trained 425 students through the Youth Preparedness Programs; and
WHEREAS, Contra Costa County residents donated 18,299 units of lifesaving blood; hosted 530 blood drives; and trained 12,164 citizens in first aid, CPR, AED, and aquatics; and provided 463 case services to military members and their families; and provided humanitarian aid internationally; and
WHEREAS, this work to uplift our community is made possible by those who selflessly answer the call to help, whenever and wherever it is needed. We hereby recognize this month of March in honor of their remarkable service, and we ask everyone to join in their commitment to care for one another.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Mayor Eduardo Martinez, on behalf of the Richmond City Council, do hereby proclaim March 2026 as Red Cross Month. I encourage all citizens of Richmond, California, to reach out and support its humanitarian mission.
Proclaiming March 2026 as Red Cross Month
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Mayor Eduardo Martinez
City of Richmond
February 24, 2026