Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS)

The Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) is the leading humanitarian organization in Uganda. Since its inception in 1939 as a small women's emergency organization, URCS has developed over the years into a formidable well-respected humanitarian agency. In 1941, it became a branch of the British Red Cross. The URCS was recognised by an "Act of Parliament in 1964" and admitted as a member of International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent in 1965. The National Society has over 350,000 registered members with one and half million beneficiaries of its interventions. URCS works through 51 Branch Offices covering the whole of Uganda. As a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement comprising the International Federation and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), URCS works with a number of partners in the execution of its Mission. These include the Government of Uganda, Corporate bodies, United Nations Agencies, NGOs and participating Sister Red Cross National Societies. Over the years, URCS has witnessed an increase in the number of partners and partnerships not only nationally but internationally including private and civil society organizations. The number of communities served by URCS has also tremendously increased, as well as the scope of activities. URCS Vision: To fulfil the URCS mandate and obligation in delivering quality and sustainable humanitarian assistance URCS Mission: To be a leading humanitarian agency in Uganda in saving lives, supporting livelihoods and promoting human dignity.