ATLANTA, August 10, 2023 – Seven disaster-trained volunteers and staff from the American Red Cross of Georgia are deploying to support disaster relief operations in Hawaii where dangerous wildfires are burning, forcing thousands of people to evacuate, some even jumping into the ocean to escape the smoke and flames. The American Red Cross is there, providing shelter and comfort to those affected by the massive fires.
“In the past 48 hours, there have been so many images, and stories, coming out of Hawaii about how the wildfires have been impacting those on the island,” said Evan Peterson, Regional Communications Manager for the American Red Cross of Georgia, who is deploying to Hawaii on Friday. “The destruction has been difficult to see, but the stories of how people are helping each other overcome this tragedy is inspiring. With so many Red Cross volunteers and staff answering this call to service, I am proud to stand beside them – telling their stories and sharing the mission with everyone who wants to hear it.”
The fires are being fueled by strong winds from Hurricane Dora which is still hundreds of miles away. Buildings have been damaged, roads closed, thousands are without power, and phone and cell service are down, making communications extremely difficult. Much of the historic town of Lahaina is destroyed. Conditions are hampering some evacuations and hospitals are treating burn and smoke inhalation patients.
The American Red Cross is working around the clock to help those affected. Trained Red Cross disaster workers responded immediately, opening shelters to provide refuge from the fires. Working with officials and partners, our teams are providing evacuees with a safe place to stay, food to eat and emotional support during this challenging time and preparing to expand relief efforts if needed. More help is on the way as disaster teams deploy from the other Hawaiian Islands and across the country.
The American Red Cross of Georgia stands ready to deploy more Disaster-Trained workers as needed.
YOU CAN HELP people affected by disasters like wildfires and countless other crises by making a gift to Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767), or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
BECOME A VOLUNTEER Every day, the American Red Cross sees the heartbreak of people trying to cope with more intense storms, heavier rainfall, higher temperatures, stronger hurricanes, and more devastating wildfires. As more people rely on the Red Cross for help, the need for compassionate volunteers has never been greater. Consider volunteering with the American Red Cross in one of our urgently needed volunteer opportunities. Learn more at redcross.org/volunteer.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.