Everything changed for Matt on August 11, 2026, as rising floodwaters quickly engulfed his Connersville apartment. Inside his home of eight years, appliances and furniture flipped to their sides, and years of memories and personal items sat submerged under four and a half feet of murky water.

"That was quite devastating, to say the least," Matt said. " You don't think about a flood ruining everything, but it sure does." 

Since the flooding, Matt said the house his apartment was in has been stripped to its bones. The damage has been so catastrophic he has been forced to find somewhere else to live.

Matt moved in with his son to Indianapolis shortly after the storms, which is when they reached out to the Red Cross. One simple phone call he soon received began to wipe the slate clean.

"Everything changed," Matt said. "It just seemed like doors opened. Things started happening in our favor. It just was a real, real blessing. I'm thankful. When people reach out and help you like that, it's pretty amazing, really." 

Matt expressed his gratitude to the Red Cross, specifically Sonia, the Red Cross caseworker that assisted him.

“It was definitely a moment of tears, happiness and a little bit of umph in the steps to continue on the mission,” said Sonia.

The Red Cross provided Matt with financial assistance after losing his home. While he said he normally does not worry much about monetary issues, he knew this disaster was different and unlike anything he had ever experienced.

"It was pretty, emotional, I'd say," Matt said. "Until you lose everything. You don't really think about monetary things, but then when you lose everything, it kind of hits home… you kind of need that stuff. 

Matt said he will be able to use the money for groceries, utilities, and help his son with living expenses until he is able to find a new place to live.

As floodwaters recede, many Indiana families are beginning their recovery. The American Red Cross alongside partners continue to provide support to those affected by the August storms.

If you have been impacted by the recent storms and need information about resources in your community, please visit redcross.org/resources.