Grateful for community partners following June 23 flooding that affected more than 60 households in Spearfish, South Dakota, the American Red Cross serving Central and Western South Dakota sent a message of thanks to all who helped the residents.
“We have been proud to work closely with other voluntary agencies in the community and have appreciated the assistance provided by local and state government officials,” said Red Cross volunteer Steve Hartman who led the organization’s local response. “We wish all of the residents affected by this disaster all the best as they work to recover from this unfortunate event.”
Red Cross volunteers have been in Spearfish since the night of the flooding and have provided individual assistance as well as health and mental health services to the affected residents. A shelter and feeding site also was available, but was not utilized by residents.
“Thanks to everyone, especially Spearfish High School,” said Richard Smith, executive director of the Red Cross in Central and Western South Dakota. “Although the operation is winding down and people no longer need the shelter, our services will continue to be available.”
Some Red Cross volunteers who serve on individual disaster care teams will be in Spearfish for another day or so to provide emotional support for residents who are relocating.
Volunteers from South Dakota, North Dakota and Minnesota responded to this operation, which was part of Minnesota and Dakotas Red Cross regional Disaster Cycle Services. Responders conducted disaster assessment and supported shelter and other relief, such as basic medical and emotional care. Regional leadership also responded on-scene to support relief operations.
Become a local disaster response volunteer
Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteers help families with their immediate needs after disasters in local communities. DAT team members provide emotional support, access to individual assistance and information to help families begin to recover. Training is provided. Bring help and hope to people in need. Learn more at redcross.org/givetime.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors. It 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 not a governmental agency, but rather a not-for-profit humanitarian organization. The Minnesota and Dakotas Region of the Red Cross serves 7.3 million people in Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota and Douglas County (Superior) in Wisconsin.