By: Nick Gibson, Disaster Public Affairs, New Mexico Flooding Response
The American Red Cross continues to support people with lodging, food and other essentials after rain and destructive floods swept through New Mexico, Arizona and Colorado in late October.
The recovery will take weeks or even months for residents in some communities. The Red Cross is committed to working with communities and our partners for however long it takes to ensure people have a safe place for lodging, meals, access to power and emotional support and comfort.
For Farmington, New Mexico, residents Kathleen Robinson and Connie Jackson, they never imagined they would find themselves in this position.
Kathleen Robinson and Connie Jackson fled their home when fast-moving flood waters began to invade their neighborhood in Farmington, NM. They were thankful to the organizations who have stepped up to provide food, supplies and help during this disaster.
“I got up at 3:30 and I heard the knocking on the door two trailers down,” said Kathleen. “A police officer came to my door and said we’re about to have a flood. He said I can’t make you leave but my suggestion for you is to leave.”
Kathleen says floodwaters quickly surrounded her home, rising to about knee deep in a matter of seconds.
She added that she had just returned home days ago after the flooding happened in late October.
With the help of our partners, a total of 31,338 meals and snacks have been provided to community members in San Juan County. Both Kathleen and Connie attended a feeding event in Wild Horse Valley where the Red Cross provided some hot meals and even clean up supplies.
“I’m thankful there is people out here that do care for us,” Kathleen. “For something tragic like this to happen and you have people to come in that’s caring and bringing you food, I’m very grateful.”
We don’t turn anyone away during a disaster. Red Cross services and shelters are available for everyone in need regardless of race, ethnicity, age, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability or citizenship status.
Connie Jackson says she encourages anyone who is on the fence to use these Red Cross services if they need them.
“I’m glad that there is people at the top willing to pick you up,” said Connie. “These type of things help a lot.”
You can help people affected by disasters like floods and countless other crises by making a gift to Red Cross Disaster Relief. Financial donations enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Visit redcross.org, call 800-RED CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
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