International Social Services

Locating Missing Loved Ones
The American Red Cross works with other national societies to trace family members in the midst of war, civil unrest, or disaster in other countries.

Exchanging Family Messages
When regular channels of communication are severed during war, the Red Cross acts as a conduit for separated family members to exchange messages.

International Disaster Relief Inquiries
Families in the U.S. who are anxious about the welfare of relatives in a disaster-stricken area can call on the Red Cross. When the national society of the affected country is able to accept inquiries, information will be channeled back through the local Red Cross chapter.

Health & Welfare Inquiries
Whenever possible, concerned families will be kept abreast of the whereabouts and well-being of relatives until normal communication resumes.

Securing International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Travel Documents
When people who are displaced, stateless, or refugees lack the necessary documents to re-settle permanently in a country where they are welcome, the American Red Cross works with the ICRC to handle requests for appropriate travel documents.

Information & Referral ServicesThe Red Cross provides referrals to local public and private agencies and also accepts requests for ICRC Certificates of Captivity, important documents used by former civilian detainees and prisoners of war to verify or substantiate their claims.

Families in the U.S. who are anxious about the welfare of relatives in a disaster-stricken area can call on the Red Cross. When the national society of the affected country is able to accept inquiries, information will be channeled back through the local Red Cross chapter.