Media Contact: Suzanne Lawler

Phone: (478) 260-0586

Email: Suzanne.lawler@redcross.org

MACON, Ga. — Eight disaster-trained volunteers from the American Red Cross of Georgia are deploying to western Washington to support relief efforts following catastrophic flooding. The Red Cross and our partners are helping people impacted as the area faces the threat of new flood damage this week on top of last week’s atmospheric rivers that caused heavy rain and strong winds.

“Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by the flooding across western Washington. As people there face the possibility of more severe weather this week, on top of last week’s catastrophic flooding, we are incredibly thankful for our dedicated volunteers who have left their families during the holiday season to help,” said Regional Disaster Officer Adelaide Kirk. “Disasters don’t take a holiday. These selfless individuals will help bring comfort and hope to people who are experiencing heartbreaking loss.”

RED CROSS RESPONSE As the situation continues to evolve, more than 250 Red Cross disaster volunteers are working around the clock with our partners to provide safe shelter, food, emergency relief supplies and more to those in need. Red Cross disaster volunteers are helping now and will continue to support people impacted by this devastating flooding in the days and weeks to come.

The Red Cross has already opened multiple emergency shelters and is working with state and local officials to identify more shelter sites if needed. So far, there have been more than 800 overnight shelter stays and more people are stopping in for basic necessities such as food, the opportunity to charge their phones and gather information. We have also provided more than 6,700 meals and snacks.

In shelters, disaster health volunteers are caring for minor injuries and replacing things like eyeglasses and medications. Disaster mental health workers are providing emotional support to those impacted by the devastating flooding.

Where it is safe to do so, Red Cross volunteers are helping assess the residential damage in affected communities. This work will help us to better understand what support families may need in the coming days and weeks.

The Red Cross of Georgia remains ready to deploy additional disaster-trained workers as needed. 

HOW YOU CAN HELP Help people affected by disasters like floods, storms and countless other crises with a Red Cross Disaster Relief donation by visiting redcross.org, calling 1- 800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or texting the word REDCROSS to 90999. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small, whenever and wherever they occur across the country.

BECOME A VOLUNTEER The American Red Cross asks you to consider giving the gift of your time this year and resolve to help people in need as a volunteer in Georgia. Depending on your interests, the Red Cross offers a variety of volunteer opportunities — from supporting a family after a fire in their home, helping a member of the military during an emergency, or helping us ensure blood is available for patients who need it. The need to help has never been greater. Join us to provide relief and hope when it matters most. Visit redcross.org/volunteer and get started today. 

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 visit us on social media.

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