“The Canadian Red Cross Society” was first established through an Act of Parliament in 1909 as an outgrowth of its humanitarian work through its affiliation with the British Red Cross, in particular its auxiliary role in support of the Canadian Government’s obligations under the Geneva Conventions.

After its creation, the Canadian Red Cross continued its work through the First World War, the interwar years, and the Second World War. More recently the call to action for the Canadian Red Cross has been responding to the increasing severity and frequency of emergencies and supporting the health of Canadians.

The Canadian Red Cross Society is a singular, not-for-profit corporation incorporated under the laws of Canada and a registered charity with the Canada Revenue Agency (registration number: 119219814 RR 0001).

Their charitable purpose is to prevent and alleviate suffering in accordance with the Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. In keeping with this purpose their mission is to help people and communities in Canada and around the world in times of need and support them in strengthening their resilience.