On 8 May 2019, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) will celebrate the strength and reach of its global network, the contribution of staff and 11.7 million active volunteers, through the theme of #Love.
For the South African Red Cross Society, this is an annual reminder to emulate and uphold the Fundamental Principles of our humanitarian movement: Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality,Independence, Voluntary service, Universality and Unity.
Our core programmes in South Africa are Disaster Risk Reduction and Relief, Health and Care, First Aid, Peer Education, Support to Orphans and Vulnerable Children, Psycho-social Support and Care for the Elderly.
Love and Charity are powerful means to help alleviate the worst effects of humanitarian crises, and to supplement public services in health care, education and housing. It also promotes the rights of the marginalized and underprivileged and spreads the message of humanity in conflict situations.
This year, 8 May is also National Election Day in South Africa.
Disaster Response teams from SA Red Cross branches around the country have been trained and equipped to assist vulnerable communities with emergency First Aid services at voting stations and transport services for elderly. Red Cross Staff and Volunteers are also on standby before and after, to assist persons in need, especially near hot-spot areas where potential election violence may arise.
May 8th is the birthday of Henri Dunant, who founded the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement during 1863 in Geneva, Switzerland. More than 150 years later, the global movements well established to provide relief to persons in distress and desolation due to war, food shortages, epidemic diseases or natural calamities.
Share your views with us: What do you #Love about the Red Cross and/or Red Crescent?
For more information or interviews, please contact:
Adv Mothibedi Panyane, Board Chairperson, Phone: +2783 371 9841
Ms Lindel Papiah, Acting CEO, Phone: +2783 395 9894, lpapiah@redcross.org.za
Address: 247 Jan Smuts Avenue, Parktown, 2196, Gauteng
Telephone: (010) 020 2516