The climate crisis is becoming so intense that the American Red Cross now responds nearly nonstop to big disasters. In fact, our volunteers are mobilizing for nearly twice as many major events today than we did a decade ago. 

In 2024 alone, the United States saw a record-breaking 11 million people displaced by disasters. This is the highest number for any country, representing about a fourth of all disaster‑related displacement worldwide. 

Because emergencies can strike at any time, the Red Cross must be ready to respond at a moment’s notice. To strengthen preparedness, Red Cross teams across the Indiana Region have been conducting disaster response simulations with no forewarning. During these surprise exercises, disaster workers practice essential response activities such as identifying and staffing shelters as well as ensuring that critical supplies and equipment are ready for immediate deployment. 

These simulations help Red Cross teams evaluate operational readiness, strengthen decision-making, and improve coordination during real disaster responses. 

The Northeast Chapter of the American Red Cross Indiana Region is scheduled to participate in this exercise later this month. As with real emergencies, teams will receive same‑day notification to ensure the most realistic training environment possible. 

Interview Opportunity 
Members of the media are invited to speak with Jennifer Sexton, executive director of the Northeast Chapter, to learn more about the steps the American Red Cross takes to prepare for disasters and practical actions families can take to stay safe before emergencies occur.  

To coordinate an interview with Jennifer Sexton, please contact Isis Chaverri at  (317) 914-5774.

• Access disaster b-roll here.
   

About the American Red Cross Indiana Region: 
The American Red Cross of Indiana Region serves 6.9 million people in 104 counties in Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky and Ohio through its chapters: Northeast, Northwest, Southeast, Southwest, and Greater Indianapolis (Regional Headquarters). The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent 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 us at Redcross.org/Indiana or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X  @indianaredcross.