WILLEMSTAD – In a symbolic and emotional start to its annual fundraising campaign, volunteers of the Curaçao Red Cross gathered Friday evening at the foot of the Queen Emma Bridge in Otrobanda, where the iconic pontoon bridge was illuminated in red to mark the beginning of an important period for the island’s largest volunteer organization.
At exactly 10 seconds before the official launch, a countdown led to the lighting of the bridge, transforming it into a red landmark in honor of the Red Cross and its humanitarian mission. The moment drew the attention of passersby, many of whom stopped to make donations through collection boxes and payment terminals as part of the organization’s annual fundraising month.
President Alfred Palm used the occasion to reflect on the turbulent state of the world and the importance of the Red Cross mission, stressing that the organization remains committed to assisting those in need based on its seven guiding principles, including humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, volunteerism and unity.
May has traditionally been the Red Cross fundraising month, during which the organization raises funds to support projects focused on the most vulnerable members of the community.
This year’s launch also marks the beginning of preparations for a major milestone. On May 18, the Curaçao Red Cross will celebrate its 95th anniversary, while the organization is already looking ahead to its centennial celebration on May 18, 2031.
Palm said the upcoming 100-year anniversary will be commemorated in a way that honors the long history and impact of the organization on Curaçao society.
Over the past 95 years, the Curaçao Red Cross and its volunteers have played a vital role in assisting citizens in times of crisis and hardship. According to the organization, financial support from the community has allowed it to invest heavily in helping vulnerable groups and responding to emergencies.
Disaster response remains one of its top priorities, both for Curaçao and neighboring islands, particularly as climate change increases the risk of natural disasters and other emergencies.
The organization also continues to invest in training and preparedness. One of its key activities is providing first aid training to the public. New classes begin twice a year, in April and September, allowing citizens to develop practical emergency response skills.
In addition, Red Cross volunteers regularly provide medical and logistical assistance during public events across the island.
Palm expressed gratitude to the organization’s volunteers, emphasizing that all their work is done on a voluntary basis without financial compensation.
At the same time, he acknowledged the challenges the organization faces, particularly rising operational costs and the unpredictability of climate-related emergencies.
He stressed that while the Red Cross asks for contributions for some services, it is not a commercial organization and does not operate for profit. Even its first aid courses, he noted, are offered at affordable rates to ensure accessibility while maintaining high quality standards.
The Curaçao Red Cross is calling on the public to continue supporting its mission throughout the month of May, either through donations made to volunteers stationed at busy locations around the island or through online contributions. The funds will help sustain its humanitarian work and strengthen preparedness for future emergencies.