Media Contact: Lily McCormick
Regional Communications Manager Lily.McCormick@redcross.org | 385-584-7610
LAS VEGAS (January 23, 2025) — A disaster relief volunteer from the American Red Cross of Southern Nevada has been deployed to Houston, Texas, ahead of expected winter weather that could impact thousands of residents across the region. The Nevada volunteer joins Red Cross responders from across the country mobilizing to provide emergency shelter, warmth and critical aid to communities preparing for severe cold conditions.
“Our volunteers are the heart of everything we do,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “Their willingness to leave home and help strangers in times of crisis is what makes our organization so powerful, and we’re proud to be able to support communities far beyond our own.”
Among the deployed volunteers is Linda Gong, a Red Cross of Southern Nevada volunteer, who is serving as a sheltering volunteer in Houston. Linda will help ensure that local residents have access to a safe and warm place to stay as temperatures drop and winter weather moves into the area.
As conditions continue to evolve, the Red Cross is working closely with local and state partners to assess needs and expand services as necessary. Red Cross disaster volunteers are coordinating with emergency management officials to support community preparedness and provide assistance to those most vulnerable to cold weather impacts.
Red Cross Responds to Winter Weather in Texas
Forecasts indicate that Houston and surrounding areas may experience dangerously low temperatures, icy conditions and potential power disruptions. The National Weather Service has urged residents to take precautions, particularly those without adequate heating or shelter.
Red Cross volunteers are opening and supporting warming shelters, offering residents food, a warm, safe place to sleep and emotional support. Additional shelter locations and resources will be activated as needed. With winter conditions posing serious risks, especially to older adults and people experiencing homelessness, the need for volunteers and community support remains critical.
How to Help
Support people affected by disasters such as winter storms, floods and countless other crises by making a Red Cross Disaster Relief donation at redcross.org/Help, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or texting REDCROSS to 90999. Donations enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help communities recover from disasters big and small, whenever and wherever they occur across the country.
Emergency Information at Your Fingertips
Stay prepared for any emergency with the free Red Cross apps. The Emergency App delivers real-time weather alerts, shelter locations and expert disaster guidance, while the First Aid App provides step-by-step instructions for injuries, including lifesaving CPR. Download by searching “American Red Cross” in your app store or visit redcross.org/apps.
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.
