By Lori Baker, Communications Volunteer

Disaster victims lose everything in the blink of an eye. Entire homes are destroyed. Families lose cherished belongings. The emotional toll is immense, as survivors struggle to recover, rebuild and figure out their next steps.

When devastating flooding and other disasters hit New Mexico, Carina Gonzalez deploys to the communities to help ease suffering. As Southern New Mexico’s American Red Cross Community Disaster Program Manager, she coordinates with community emergency managers, oversees shelter operations and a feeding plan, and ensures that the necessary resources are available.

“Our Red Cross volunteers bring hope wherever they go. Their genuine care for others, their commitment to helping people recover, and their ability to provide comfort in times of uncertainty remind me why this organization is so special,” Carina said.

In July, Carina experienced first-hand the compassion and support that defines the Red Cross when her own home in Doña Ana County was affected by flooding.

“The simple acts of checking in, sending a message, or making a call meant so much during that difficult time. It reminded me of how deeply we care for one another, both within our team and in the communities, we serve,” Carina said.

“Seeing our volunteers in action — many of whom I’ve worked alongside countless times — was especially inspiring. Experiencing their kindness as a community member reaffirmed how truly dedicated, they are to living our mission every day, even through the smallest gestures, like offering a smile or asking how someone is doing.”

Carina said she is very appreciative that Red Cross Arizona and New Mexico Division Chief Executive Officer Edgar Olivo and Red Cross New Mexico Executive Director in New Mexico Kathy Segura along with several other Red Cross staffers and volunteers visited her at her home to make sure she and her husband were okay.

Regional Disaster Officer Merydth Walter and Senior Community Disaster Program Manager MaRico Tippett stayed on the phone with Carina throughout the night of the flood and continued offering their support the next day as she tried to reach her husband.

“The compassion, care, and kindness I’ve experienced remind me daily of the incredible people I work with,” Carina said.

Since joining the Red Cross about 18 months ago, Carina has deployed to disaster responses throughout New Mexico, including Lincoln County, Roswell and Silver City.

One of the most catastrophic disasters was the record flash flooding that battered Ruidoso in July. Carina and Kathy worked closely together to share information with community partners. They visited numerous local restaurants, faith-based organizations, and community centers — particularly within Ruidoso’s large Hispanic community — to ensure residents were informed and encouraged to register for assistance.

“The most important thing to remember is that the safety of you and your family matters most. Some families lost everything, while others were able to return to damaged but livable homes. Regardless of the situation, recovery takes time, and we must continue supporting these communities not only with immediate needs but also through long-term recovery, education, and planning for the future,” Carina said.

“Beyond immediate disaster response, we also focus on maintaining strong relationships with our partners year-round. We make it a priority to highlight the important work of the Red Cross and help partners understand that our support continues long after a disaster ends,” she added.

If you’d like to become a Red Cross volunteer or donate blood or money, go to redcross.org to see how you can help.