The 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck Southcentral Alaska Friday morning was an unsettling event for many Alaskans. The Red Cross has been working around the clock with our partners to assist in disaster response.

The American Red Cross mission is to prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.

The acts of kindness we’ve witnessed over the past few days could not hold truer to our mission. Within hours of the earthquake, Alaskans sprang into action. From offers to supply monetary support, to individuals stepping up to volunteer, to local restaurants calling to supply food donations. The need is great but the love and support we have received has come through.

Since Friday evening the Red Cross has provided 182 overnight shelter stays, served 1,848 meals and snacks and mobilized over 60 volunteers to support our earthquake response. This operation has been made possible by the strong support of our donors. We have simply been overwhelmed with support and kindness since we began our disaster response operation.

No other organization can mobilize and scale up like the Red Cross. The earthquake that occurred Friday reminds us of the seriousness of where we live, and the importance of being ready when disaster strikes.

The Red Cross of Alaska would like to give our most sincere thanks to ExxonMobil, Teck Resources, AT&, GCI, Fred Meyer, Alaska Federal Credit Union and Alyeska Pipeline for your immediate financial support of the Red Cross of Alaska following Friday’s earthquake:

We are able to provide this much-needed help thanks to our donor support. Time after time, disaster after disaster, Red Cross of Alaska donors help us help people in need.

Thank you.