FORT SMITH — The American Red Cross is set to close the following shelter on Saturday, June 15 at 1 p.m. as individuals transition to the next phase of recovery:
“As river levels fall and residents affected by the flooding begin the process of returning home, we will continue to be here for our local communities,” said Julie Brown, Northwest Arkansas Chapter executive director. “The Red Cross will continue to work with partners and do everything we can to connect people with the resources they need for recovery.”
The role of the Red Cross in any disaster is to focus on addressing the immediate needs of those affected. The Red Cross is coordinating with community, government and emergency management officials to determine where and when additional assistance is needed, and Red Cross caseworkers are connecting one-on-one with people to create recovery plans, work through paperwork and locate help from other agencies.
Call 1-888-244-4023 if you are an Arkansas resident who has been impacted by recent flooding damage and provide your contact information for Red Cross recovery resources. Operators are available 24/7.
How to help:
While the Red Cross appreciates the good intentions of those wanting to donate goods, supplies or other materials, the best way to support is to make a financial donation. This allows the Red Cross to be flexible in using the funds to directly address the needs of those affected. Call, click, or text to give: visit redcross.org, call 1-800 RED CROSS or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation donate online at www.redcross.org.
To volunteer to assist with this disaster or future disaster, please go to redcross.org.
Flood Safety Information:
As residents begin returning home, please remember the following:
Stay away from floodwaters. Beware of snakes, insects and other animals that may be in or around floodwaters and your home.
Wear protective clothing, including rubber gloves and rubber boots, and be cautious when cleaning up.
Check the outside of your home before you enter. Look for loose power lines, broken or damaged gas lines, foundation cracks, missing support beams or other damage.
For the latest information on Red Cross relief efforts in Arkansas, please follow @ArkRedCross on Facebook or Twitter.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.