Every July 24 (24/7 Day), the NACS Foundation unites convenience stores across America in recognizing first responders, medical personnel and American Red Cross volunteers who work around the clock, 24/7, to serve our communities to ensure people don’t face emergencies alone. The annual event helps raise awareness and donations for the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross and spotlights our industry’s important role in supporting local heroes and the communities we serve.

Emergencies don’t take a break. Helping people during crises is at the heart of the Red Cross mission, and the need is constant, considering that more than 30,000 people a day on average receive Red Cross support — whether they need lifesaving blood, relief after a disaster, support with the challenges of military life, skills that save lives or international humanitarian aid. And when communities need essentials, c-stores are there too, often among the only retailers that remain open in a crisis.