KALAMAZOO (May 9, 2024) – The American Red Cross continues to address the needs of residents affected by the tornadoes that swept through southwest Michigan Tuesday.

The Red Cross has mobilized local disaster workers – 90 percent of whom are volunteers – to help residents in need. Today, volunteers are starting to assess residential damage in affected communities. This work will help the Red Cross to better understand what help families may need in the coming days and weeks.

The Red Cross is working closely with local community partners across the impacted areas to evaluate the needs of residents.

In the aftermath of the tornadoes, the Red Cross opened an emergency shelter on Tuesday for anyone displaced or impacted. The shelter is located at First Assembly of God, 5550 Oakland Drive, in Portage. Twenty-six people stayed in the shelter overnight on Wednesday.

Everyone is welcome at the shelter, even if only for a short period of relief like getting something to eat or charging your phone. The shelter is intended to meet the immediate, short-term needs until long-term efforts can get underway. The Red Cross also plays a critical role in helping families and communities recover in the weeks and months after a disaster.

Anyone who was impacted by the tornadoes may call 1-800-RED CROSS (733-2767) for assistance.

MEDIA CONTACT: David Olejarz | david.olejarz@redcross.org | 313-303-0606

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.