Southwest Airlines has partnered with the American Red Cross as a Disaster Responder Member for a decade, helping to meet the emergency needs of people affected by disasters each year. By pre-investing in disaster relief, Southwest helps make it possible for the Red Cross to pre-position supplies, secure shelters, maintain vehicles, and train volunteers nationwide. These proactive contributions help ensure the Red Cross is ready to respond, day and night.
“Every day in the face of disasters, the generosity of partners like Southwest Airlines ensures the Red Cross can provide comfort and care to people in their darkest hours,” said Don Herring, chief development officer at the American Red Cross. “We are extremely grateful for these contributions before disasters strike because it enables us to respond to disasters immediately and compassionately, when help and hope are needed most.”
Since the Red Cross was founded in 1881, helping people affected by disasters has been at the Heart of its mission. This work is only made possible through the support of dedicated volunteers—who comprise 90 percent of the Red Cross workforce—and generous donors like Southwest, who provide the financial and in-kind resources needed to help people and communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters.
Unfortunately, as the frequency and intensity of disasters continue to increase, some emergencies are impacting people in new ways—such as February’s intense freeze in Texas—while other communities, like Louisiana and California, are hit again and again by severe storms and wildfires.
American Red Cross volunteer speaking with a Houston, Texas resident staying at a Red Cross shelter on Feb. 19, 2021, during the Texas winter storm.
So far in 2021, we’ve seen a 26 percent increase in the number of disasters in 2021 compared to this time last year. Extreme drought conditions helped wildfires start earlier than normal, and meteorologists are predicting another above-average hurricane season, which has already devastated communities across multiple states in the south and northeast. These intensifying disasters show how donor support is even more critical now than ever.
American Red Cross worker looking out on flooding caused by Hurricane Ida outside of Vacherie, Louisiana on Sept. 3, 2021
Educating Our Communities
In addition to helping people once a disaster has occurred, the Red Cross works with communities, families, and schools to educate people on disaster preparedness and help them to be ready in case of an emergency. Red Cross educational programs are conducted in schools across the country and preparedness programs provide important home Safety information to families in at-risk communities. No matter the type of disaster, being prepared is important for everyone. Taking the time to make a plan for various scenarios can make a big difference in times of crisis.
Join Our Mission
Throughout the years, Southwest has stepped up in various ways. From financial support, to providing tarmac space to allow for the cleaning of cots after a disaster, to engaging its employees to volunteer and deliver the Red Cross mission, Southwest Airlines is a dedicated Red Cross supporter and key philanthropic partner. Southwest Airlines is partnering with the Red Cross to join these relief efforts. Between now and Oct. 4, 2021, Southwest Rapid Rewards Members who donate a minimum of $25 to the Red Cross will receive 20 Rapid Rewards ® bonus points for every dollar. These donations help further the mission of the Red Cross by providing relief to those affected by disaster, no matter when or where they strike. Visit Southwest Airlines supports the Red Cross to learn more.
American Red Cross volunteers on Aug. 11, 2021, gathering supplies to deliver to the areas most affected by the Dixie and River wildfires in California
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
*Rapid Rewards account information is required. Points will be reflected in the Members’ Rapid Rewards account within 45 days after a donation has been made. The maximum earn limit is 10,000 points. Rapid Rewards bonus points do not count toward A-List, A-List Preferred, or Companion Pass qualification.
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