Thai Red Cross Society

The Thai Red Cross Society (TRCS) is a national charitable organization and a vital component of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. Founded in 1893 as the “Red Unalom Society of Siam” under the patronage of King Chulalongkorn, its mission is to alleviate human suffering, promote international humanitarian law, and provide comprehensive health services to the most vulnerable.

Rooted in the fundamental principles of humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality, the TRCS is a non-profit organization that serves all people without discrimination.

Core Areas of Operation:

• Medical and Healthcare Services: The TRCS operates several major medical facilities, including King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital and Queen Savang Vadhana Memorial Hospital. It also manages a rehabilitation center and provides public health services, particularly to people in remote areas. The Srisavarindhira Thai Red Cross Institute of Nursing is one of the country’s leading nursing schools.
• Blood Transfusion Services: The National Blood Centre of the TRCS is the central hub for blood collection, processing, and distribution, providing blood and blood components to hospitals nationwide.
• Disaster Preparedness and Response: The society provides immediate relief and humanitarian assistance to victims of various disasters, including floods, storms, fires, and droughts. It also works to build community resilience through disaster preparedness programs.
• Quality of Life Promotion: The TRCS runs programs to enhance the well-being of disadvantaged and vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, underprivileged children, and monks. This includes initiatives like the Thai Red Cross Children Home and home care programs for the aging population.
• Specialized Centers: The TRCS manages several specialized centers that are crucial to public health, including the Thai Red Cross Organ Donation Centre, the Thai Red Cross Eye Bank, the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute (which produces vaccines and antivenins), and the Thai Red Cross AIDS Research Centre.

With a strong network of 76 provincial chapters, a dedicated force of over a million volunteers, and a deep-seated commitment to its humanitarian principles, the Thai Red Cross Society is a cornerstone of Thailand’s public health and social welfare infrastructure.