Welcome to the Greater Manchester Red Cross

A Leading Edge in Blood Banking and Research
Having provided comfort and aid to those in need since 1881, the Red Cross quickly adopted Blood Services as a fundamental part of its humanitarian mission.

Started as a war relief effort to provide life-saving blood for soldiers during World War II, Red Cross Blood Services has grown to become an industry leader — collecting and distributing half the nation's blood supply.

All the technology and science, however, is only made possible by one simple selfless act: An average person takes time out of his busy schedule to give a piece of himself so that someone he will never know has a chance to live. This incredible act of kindness, that allows a stranger to celebrate another birthday, give birth to a child, or share another Thanksgiving dinner with family and friends, is at the heart of what we do.

Since establishing the first civilian blood service after World War II, the American Red Cross has been a leader in blood collection, safety and development. Today, the safety and availability of the blood supply is our highest priority. And our national research center, the Jerome H. Holland Laboratory, is one of the foremost blood research facilities in the world.

Today's Red Cross blood program is the legacy of Dr. Charles Drew, a hematologist, surgeon, educator and scientist whose pioneering work in blood collection, plasma processing and transfusion therapy laid the foundation for modern blood banking.

Click Here To find a donation center near you!

Volunteer Opportunites:

BLOOD DRIVE ASSISTANT/ESCORT
Help Red Cross staff members at drives by taking blood bags (safety precautions are taken) to and from the processing table. In addition, volunteers are needed to escort donors to the canteen area.

REGISTRATION VOLUNTEER
Greets volunteer blood donors and provides instruction on how to complete the health history questionnaire. Refers donors with medical questions to the appropriate personnel. Makes certain that people are received in the order of arrival.

CANTEEN VOLUNTEER
Watch for signs that blood donors do not feel well and alerts staff for medical assistance. Provides donors with refreshments and organizes canteen area. Thanks donors for donating blood.

For more information on blood services or to become a volunteer, contact Ellen Benson at (603) 625-1951 or email bensone@usa.redcross.org .