Bridge Collapse Tragedy

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Our motto at the American Red Cross is “readiness” and that motto was exemplified throughout this tragedy thanks to you.

Soon after the 35W bridge collapse, your American Red Cross was in close contact with our hospital partners in the area – including the nearby University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview where injured were taken – ensuring the hospitals were ready with the blood products they needed to treat victims if this disaster.

Not only were blood products on-hand for hospitals in need, but we were also ready to respond and provide mass care, mental health counseling and more to those affected. So far, we've responded to more than 1,200 disaster welfare inquires, this includes mental health counseling and other emotional support services.

We’ve also provided more than 3,000 meals and 6,000 snacks to families and first responders on the scene. Our integrated teams of mental health and health services volunteers have visited all the local hospitals where survivors have been taken and have contacted all of the injured, treated and families of the deceased.

The response from the public in support of those affected by this tragedy has been truly remarkable. Thanks for supporting your American Red Cross; we couldn’t be so “ready” without you.

To schedule a blood donation appointment, please call 1.800.GIVE.LIFE or click here. Those who donate blood in the coming days, weeks and months help ensure we’re prepared for any disaster, big or small. For more information about how we provide relief to victims of disasters and help people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies please visit redcross.org or call 1.800.RED.CROSS. 

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