The Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) has launched the “Humanity Needs You” campaign. This initiative aims to appeal to the public for support of URCS initiatives, raise funds for various programs and activities, and educate the public about the role of the Uganda Red Cross in Uganda.
The campaign comes as URCS marks 60 years of dedicated service to humanity.
Key activities of the campaign include recruiting new members and volunteers to expand URCS’s network and increase its capacity to respond to emergencies and conduct humanitarian activities across the country. Additionally, the campaign will encourage voluntary blood donations in various locations to ensure a constant blood supply.
Since its establishment in 1964, URCS has been at the forefront of saving lives, building resilient communities, and promoting human dignity.
Launching the campaign, Robert Kwesiga, URCS Secretary General, acknowledged the tremendous journey URCS has undertaken over the past 60 years of serving humanity.
“We have seen significant changes as the National Society has transitioned, moving beyond offering aid during times of war to the broader mandate we have today, amidst the overwhelming needs of people. Whenever there’s a life-threatening occurrence, the Red Cross steps in to save lives. The public always looks up to us, and we must live up to this call. However, we need resources readily available to respond. These resources include human resources and the financial muscle required,” Kwesiga said.
He added, “As we launch the ‘Humanity Needs You’ campaign, we are reminded of the power of collective effort and the difference we can make if we come together as Ugandans and as people who love humanity. The Uganda Red Cross has created this space for you; come and join us. We are committed to serving the most vulnerable, and we call upon every Ugandan to join us in this mission. Join as a member, a volunteer, an ambassador, a blood donor, among others. Give towards serving humanity, and together, we can build a stronger and more resilient Uganda Red Cross Society.”
The campaign will also promote various URCS programs that benefit Ugandans.
“We intend to use the power of media to further create awareness about Uganda Red Cross interventions and raise more resources to sustain our programs as we execute our mandate of serving humanity. We will target different categories of people for each campaign segment, so that we do not leave out anyone. Corporates can donate money, volunteer their time and skills, while youths can donate blood, join our mobilization activities, champion climate change and environmental initiatives, and engage in community service, among others,” said Irene Nakasiita, URCS Director of Communications, Resource Mobilization, and Partnerships.
“Join our campaign and contribute towards saving lives. This is what we mean when we say, ‘Humanity Needs You,’” Nakasiita added.