Worst disaster in history of Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul
In late April 2024, the Brazilian state of Rio Grande do Sul suffered what authorities called the worst disaster in the state’s history.
Heavy rains caused unprecedented flooding that affected over 2 million people. The already devastating situation worsened when heavy rain and new flooding hit the area again in June.
Brazilian Red Cross volunteers worked tirelessly to deliver first aid, psychological support and relief supplies across flood-affected communities.
Four highly trained crisis responders from the American Red Cross deployed alongside local Red Cross and International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) teams in the weeks following the flooding to lend skills in information management, communications and cash and voucher assistance (CVA).
The CVA program has been implemented since July 2024 and has reached 1,170 families (3,510 people). Cash assistance is a dignified and efficient way to support people impacted by disasters, allowing them to purchase items specific to their individual needs, while also supporting local economies.
Read about one American Red Crosser who supported the flood response here.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
Support all the urgent humanitarian needs of the American Red Cross.
Find a drive and schedule a blood donation appointment today.
Take a class and be ready to respond if an emergency strikes.
