Nebraska and Southwest Iowa is experience historic flooding and the American Red Cross is on the ground assisting those affected. Here’s how you can help.
VOLUNTEEER
The American Red Cross focuses on the needs of those affected by the flooding. Volunteers are needed at shelters to provide a safe place to stay, a place to sleep, hot meals and referrals to partner agencies.
Anyone can make a difference by volunteering. We’ll find the position that appeals to you and allows you to use your skills and talents. Those interested in helping can sign up to volunteer at redcross.org. Volunteer Services will contact newly registered volunteers to identify opportunities for them to help.
The American Red Cross is focused on the immediate needs of those affected. If you would like to help with cleanup efforts or search and rescue, contact other disaster relief organizations in the community who assist with these areas of response and recovery. Learn more about what other organizations are doing by contacting the United Way at 2-1-1.
DONATE FINANCIALLY
Those interested in making a financial donation to support relief efforts can do so by visiting www.redcross.org/donate and selecting ‘I want to Support Disaster Relief.’ Donations can also be mailed to American Red Cross, 2912 S. 80th Ave., Omaha NE 68124. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small.
We appreciate the good intentions of those wanting to donate goods, supplies or other materials, but the best way to support is to make a financial donation. Financial donations allow the Red Cross to be flexible in using the funds to directly address the needs of those affected.
GIVE BLOOD
Heavy snow and flooding over the past week have caused the cancellation of more than 350 blood donations. If you're eligible to give, please visit RedCrossBlood.org to find a blood drive near you. Local blood needs are met first, but because the Red Cross is a national network, we are able to send blood wherever it is needed across the U.S. In our time of need, we are also able to get blood from donors outside of Nebraska and Iowa.
FOR THE LATEST INFORMATION
Download the Red Cross Emergency App for shelter information and to get instant access to information and resources on what to do during a flood. The app is free and can be downloaded in app stores by searching for “American Red Cross” or going to redcross.org/apps.
Also, follow us on Facebook and Twitter for up-to-date information.