By Duhane Lindo, Regional Communications Manager

The Central Florida and U.S. Virgin Islands Region of the American Red Cross have eight volunteers who have answered the call to deploy to California and support disaster relief efforts.  

These volunteers are joining hundreds of Red Cross workers on the ground, helping to ensure residents in Southern California have a safe place to stay and emotional support during this challenging time.

"I did Hurricane Sandy, I’ve done the Joplin Tornadoes and just recently I’ve done the Florida Hurricanes,” said volunteer Frank Hall, who spoke with Tampa press before his departure. “Every time you see it on tv, it makes you want to go start packing."

This will mark Hall’s 42^nd deployment in 14 years with the Red Cross. With a number of volunteer assignments under his belt, his core focus from day one are the families affected. “People are at their lowest and you’re there to help them dig out emotionally, physically and psychologically,” said Hall. “We cover bases like sheltering, feeding as well as spiritual care.”

Two other Red Cross volunteers from USVI, Marjorie Pedro and Gwendolyn O’ Garrow, raised their hands to join the response, driven by a commitment to bring help to those hurting.

Local volunteers have traveled (by air) to Los Angeles to support relief operations for at least two weeks.

• Frank Hall, Tampa Bay Chapter, assigned to logistics and distribution of emergency supplies
• Marjorie Pedro, USVI Chapter based in St. Croix, assigned to sheltering
• Gwendolyn O' Garrow, USVI Chapter based in St. Croix, assigned to sheltering
• Jim Martin, Greater Orlando Chapter based in Orlando, assigned to sheltering
• Jerry Salsburg, Greater Orlando Chapter based in Orlando, assigned to sheltering
• Erica Santella. Mid-Florida Chapter based in Winter Haven, assigned to sheltering
• Roger O’ Campo, Mid-Florida Chapter based in Winter Haven, assigned to government operations
• Christine Franz, Space Coast Chapter based in Daytona Beach, assigned to logistics and distribution of emergency supplies

Hundreds of evacuees woke up in emergency shelters, many of whom are struggling after losing everything. The Red Cross is working closely with our partners to provide safe shelter, food, emotional support and other critical services to those in need. In shelters, disaster health volunteers are caring for minor injuries and replacing things like eyeglasses and medications while mental health volunteers are providing comfort to those affected. Truckloads of supplies like cots, blankets, water and relief items are available to support thousands of additional people if needed. The threat isn’t over. People must remain vigilant, be prepared to evacuate and follow directives from local authorities as the situation evolves.