Spain Red Cross starts first-ever public campaign to help Spaniards as crisis worsens

MADRID – Spain's Red Cross is launching its first-ever public appeal for donations to help the growing number Spaniards in need of help because of the country's economic crisis.

Spokesman Miguel Angel Rodriguez said Tuesday the agency is looking to round up some €30 million ($38.87 million) over the next two years to help an extra 300,000 people.

The agency helped some 2 million people in Spain last year, most of who were in need of food or money. Up to now, the Spanish Red Cross' fundraisers have always been directed at helping people in need abroad.

The new campaign, titled "Now More than Ever," begins Wednesday when the organization holds its annual collection day.

Spain is in its second recession in three years with near 25 percent unemployment.