KALAMAZOO (March 8, 2026) – The American Red Cross has mobilized a team of nearly 30 disasters workers to support its disaster response operation and meet the needs of residents affected by the tornadoes that swept through Southwest Michigan Friday.
Today, Red Cross volunteers will begin conducting preliminary assessments of residential damage in affected communities. This work will help the Red Cross to better understand what assistance residents may need in the coming days and weeks.
The Red Cross continues to work closely with local community partners across the impacted areas to evaluate the needs of residents. Anyone who was impacted by the storms and needs help can contact 1-800-RED CROSS (733-2767).
An emergency shelter at Riverside Church, 207 E. Michigan Ave., in Three Rivers, remains open to anyone affected by the storms. Everyone is welcome at the shelter, even if only for a short period of relief like getting something to eat or charging their 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.
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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.
