Many people seem to be unaware of the work that Red Cross involves.

Red Cross works in 190 countries with a total workforce of 17 million volunteers.

Australia has a total membership of 18,319 people.

Where does the money raised by Australians go?

Last year $298 million was spent delivering services and responding to emergencies and disasters with $249 million spent in Australia, not a huge amount leaving our shores.

In Australia 54,000 Queenslanders were issued with food vouchers after Cyclone Marcia with a total of 19,727 people supported during emergencies such as fires and flooding.

Some 6000 young people were taught first aid, for drug and alcohol related emergencies (the Save a Mate program).

Unfortunately , these happenings are becoming more prevalent.

Red Cross provided 557,108 breakfasts to school children who otherwise may have missed that meal.

Young parents, neglected children, the homeless, isolated people who receive a phone call daily, drought and flood affected communities are some of the Australian people who Red Cross cared for in 2015 .

How fortunate are we, and the 190 other countries in our world, to have such an organisation as Red Cross, to be there in times of crisis.

Red Cross requests younger people to help with this vital work. Many long time members need a helping hand as they age.

Please consider becoming a member, the rewards are many and your help invaluable to those less fortunate,wherever they may be.

If you wish to become involved contact the Supporter Services Centre for more information on 1800 811 700 or email members@redcross.org.au.

Did you know? The Australian Branch of the British Red Cross Society began August 13, 1914 at Government House, Melbourne, nine days after the outbreak of WWI. By WWII Red Cross had become Australia’s largest charitable organisation.