The American Red Cross is mobilizing trained Red Cross disaster relief workers to support the response as Hurricane Harvey bears down on Texas and Louisiana. At least 16 volunteers from the Western North Carolina Region are making their way to Texas to support a variety of roles.

Several evacuation shelters were opened Thursday night and several more are ready to open and support thousands of people if needed. Trailers full of shelter and relief supplies have been pre-positioned including cots, blankets, comfort and cleaning supplies.

More than 30 Red Cross emergency response vehicles are activated with about 20 more on alert. As with any potential large scale disaster, the Red Cross is working closely with government officials and community partners in both Texas and Louisiana to coordinate potential response efforts.

“Our volunteers are dedicated to helping families when they need it most, whether in their local community or across the country,” said Angela A. Broome, regional executive officer for the Western North Carolina Region. “They step up often with little notice and heed the call to those in need. The Red Cross would not be able to fulfill its mission of alleviating human suffering if not for these wonderful volunteers.”

HOW YOU CAN HELP

The Red Cross works 24/7 to be ready to respond to disasters such as hurricanes. Even before the first raindrop falls in Texas and Louisiana, the Red Cross is spending money to get ready. Please donate to the Red Cross to help. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small.

DOWNLOAD EMERGENCY APP 

Download the free Red Cross Emergency App to receive emergency alerts and information about what to do in case of hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding and other disasters, as well as locations of shelters. The App also includes emergency first aid information and a Family Safe feature which allows people to instantly see if loved ones are okay. The free Emergency App is available in app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.

VOLUNTEERING

The time and talent of every volunteer makes a real difference in people’s lives. Those interested in volunteering should visit www.redcross.org/wnc today to learn more about volunteer opportunities and how to submit a volunteer application.

DONATE BLOOD

You also may help by donating blood. Blood collection in areas impacted by severe storms drops significantly yet need often increases. Visitwww.redcrossblood.org for a collection location or blood drive near you.

Submitted by Jerri Jameson