JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - July 15, 2025 - The American Red Cross of North and Central Florida is calling on community members to become Shelter Heroes -- local volunteers trained to help their neighbors when a major disaster strikes.

With hurricanes and other large-scale emergencies on the rise, community-based Shelter Heroes play a critical role by providing shelter, food, comfort and care to local residents who have been displaced.

“This is a great way to turn compassion into action,” said Christian Smith, CEO, American Red Cross, North and Central Florida Region. “With just a few hours of training, you can be ready to make a real difference in your own community.”

Red Cross shelter volunteers assist with daily operations of an emergency shelter after a major disaster. This can involve various tasks such as registration, feeding, dormitory management and maintaining a safe and comfortable environment. 

For a list of upcoming training sessions across North and Central Florida, please visit our events page and follow our region on social media @RedCrossNCFL. 

To learn more about the program and expectations, please visit RedCross.org/ShelterHeroesFL.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.

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