Story told by: Nick Gibson, South Carolina Red Crosser

As winter storms have affected South Carolina over the past two weeks, many American Red Cross employees and volunteers deployed to the Palmetto State to help those in need. One of those employees was Andrew Rosenberg, who traveled from California.

Andrew is a community disaster program manager in the Northern California Coastal Region, based in San Francisco. 

He believes deploying and helping others is incredibly important.

“I heard about the winter storms coming in, and I wanted to help out as much as I could,” Andrew said.

When disaster strikes, the Red Cross provides safe shelter, food, relief supplies, financial assistance, and comfort.

Since being deployed, Andrew has been assigned to a critical role helping South Carolinians impacted by the winter storms.

“When I arrived, I was put in a headquarters position helping out Tony Satterfield with sheltering,” Andrew said. “Moving folks around, making sure they are fully staffed and operational.”

The Red Cross of South Carolina opened several shelters during the winter storms.

Andrew says this is his first deployment with the Red Cross, and he has only worked with the organization for a couple of months.

The Red Cross doesn’t turn anyone away during a disaster. Services and shelters are available for everyone in need regardless of race, ethnicity, age, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, or citizenship status.

“I just wanted to be of service and help folks,” Andrew said. “I like the connection with people; I like being in another region of the country and meeting new people.”

The Red Cross responds to about 65,000 disasters every year. Large disasters like hurricanes, floods, winter storms, and wildfires are becoming more frequent and intense as the climate crisis worsens.

For those who are hesitant about joining the organization and helping those in need, Andrew wants everyone to understand that every contribution, no matter how big or small, creates real impact in the community.

“It’s an incredibly satisfying experience,” Andrew said. “If you’re somebody who likes to be of service and wants to be a part of something bigger than yourself, it’s unmatched. You’re really doing something that’s so necessary, and the individuals you meet in need teach you a world of good.”

Visit redcross.org/donate to make a financial donation. An average of 90 cents of every dollar we spend is invested in providing care and comfort for those in need. Every donation makes a difference in someone’s life.