SALT LAKE CITY — The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has donated nearly $7.9 million to the American Red Cross to expand blood collection efforts, enhance disaster response capabilities, and fund international typhoon relief, officials announced Friday.
The total contribution includes a $7.05 million primary grant alongside an additional $850,000 specifically allocated for disaster relief operations following Super Typhoon Sinlaku, which struck in April. The funds will support critical humanitarian programs both in Utah and nationwide.
The largest portion of the main gift focuses on Red Cross Blood Services. It includes $2.94 million for medical equipment, $800,000 to purchase 50 new Power Red collection machines, and $710,000 to upgrade and expand the Red Cross blood laboratory in Murray, Utah. Power Red equipment allows eligible donors to give two units of red blood cells during a single visit.
Another $2 million will support the Red Cross Sickle Cell Initiative, a program launched in 2021 to increase closely matched blood supplies for patients fighting sickle cell disease. Since the initiative began, the Red Cross has seen an 89% increase in Black or African American blood donors.
Additionally, $600,000 will fund four new emergency response vehicles deployed into communities following disasters to deliver food, water, and relief supplies.
“This gift will have an impact here in Utah and across the country, helping us build our capacity to serve people every day and when disasters happen,” said Heidi Ruster, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region.
Bishop W. Christopher Waddell, presiding bishop of the Church, emphasized the religious principles guiding the gift. “As followers of Jesus Christ, we seek to care for our neighbors, lift burdens and bring hope to individuals and families in times of need,” Waddell said.
The announcement highlights a humanitarian partnership spanning more than a century, originating in the late 1800s when Red Cross founder Clara Barton and Relief Society President Emmeline B. Wells collaborated during the Spanish-American War.
Today, the Church stands as the single largest sponsor of Red Cross blood drives, with members donating more than 94,100 units of blood across nearly 3,000 drives last year. The latest funding builds upon previous major donations, including $5.1 million in 2025 and $7.35 million in 2024.