About the Red Cross

Mission Statement

The American Red Cross, a humanitarian organization led by volunteers and guided by its Congressional Charter and the Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross Movement, will provide relief to victims of disaster and help people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies.

Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement

Humanity

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, born of a desire to bring assistance without discrimination to the wounded on the battlefield, endeavors in its international and national capacity to prevent and alleviate human suffering wherever it may be found. Its purpose is to protect life and health and to ensure respect for the human being. It promotes mutual understanding, friendship, cooperation and lasting peace among all peoples.

Impartiality

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement makes no discrimination as to nationality, race, religious beliefs, class or political opinions. It endeavors to relieve the suffering of individuals, being guided solely by their needs, and to give priority to the most urgent cases of distress.

Neutrality

In order to continue to enjoy the confidence of all, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement may not take sides in hostilities or engage at any time in controversies of a political, racial, religious or ideological nature.

Independence
The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is independent. The National Societies, while auxiliaries in the humanitarian services of their governments and subject to the laws of their respective countries, must always maintain their autonomy so that they may be able at all times to act in accordance with the principles of the Movement.

Voluntary Service

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is a voluntary relief movement not prompted in any manner by desire for gain.

Unity

There can be only one Red Cross or one Red Crescent Society in any one country. It must be open to all. It must carry on its humanitarian work throughout its territory.

Universality

The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, in which all Societies have equal status and share equal responsibilities and duties in helping each other, is worldwide.

FAQ About the American Red Cross Twin Cities Area Chapter

Is there a charge for disaster relief?

No. All Red Cross disaster relief assistance and disaster relief training is provided free of charge. 

Is the Red Cross a government agency?

No. The Red Cross is a charitable organization—not a government agency—and relies on the generosity of volunteers and donors to perform its humanitarian mission.

What is Twin Cities Chapter services area?

The Twin Cities Area Chapter provides programs and services for the 2.85 million residents of Anoka, Chisago, Hennepin, Isanti, Ramsey, Scott, and western Washington counties. 

How many disaster responses are there each year?

The Twin Cities Area Chapter responds to approximately 300 disasters each year. The most common event where were provide assistance is house and apartment fires. 

Does the Twin Cities Area Chapter of the Red Cross provide only disaster relief?

No. In addition to disaster relief, Twin Cities Area Chapter provides Services to Armed Forces, Emergency Medical Services, Emergency Social Services, International Services, Community Outreach Programs, Health and Safety Services such as CPR, Water Safety and Nurse Assistant Training, and Blood Services. 

How old do I have to be to donate blood?

Blood donors need to be at least 17 years old, or 16 years old with a signed Red Cross parental/guardian consent form for whole blood where state permits, must weight at least 100 pounds and be in general good health. Eligible donors can call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE or go online to givebloodgivelife.org for more information and to make a blood donation appointment.

Need Red Cross
disaster assistance?
612-871-7676