Through its volunteer resources, the Red Cross provides assistance to meet other needs in local communities-through programs such as instruction in child care, opportunities to enhance the quality of life for our senior citizens, and channels for today's youth to become tomorrow's leaders. The Red Cross will continue to open new doors of service to the American people, and succeeding generations of Red Cross volunteers will provide help where it is needed. Gifts to the Red Cross ensure the continuance of these essential services and the development of new ones. Back to the top of the page Back to the top of the Planned Giving Section Types of Gifts Gifts to the Red Cross may be either restricted or unrestricted. They may be specified for use by a chapter, by the national sector of the Red Cross, or by both.
Donors can make gifts in the following ways.
An Outright Gift of Cash Many gifts made to the Red Cross are in the form of cash. The value of the deduction depends on the donor's tax rate-the higher the rate, the greater the savings from the gift. A Gift of Securities Stocks and bonds that have increased in value may be given as a charitable gift to the Red Cross. By making a gift of the appreciated securities themselves, donors may completely avoid the capital gains tax, allowing the gift to be made at a significantly lower cost. For more information, donors are advised to check with their tax advisors.