What is the Red Cross

The Red Cross is an organization that works to alleviate suffering caused by fighting. But we also help people in times of peace to strengthen their capacities to live safer and healthier lives and prepare for and recover from disasters. Within Canada we focus on emergency response, first aid and water safety training, community health, family reunification, and other services in communities across the country. Our network is vast but our approach is simple. All Red Cross programs and activities are guided by the fundamental principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity and universality. These principles allow us to provide help immediately to whoever needs it, wherever they are, whatever their race, political beliefs, religion, social status or culture.