Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (August 2, 2022) — Trained disaster volunteers from the American Red Cross of Southern Nevada have deployed to Eastern Kentucky to help with the ongoing relief efforts in communities hit by devastating flooding. Today, more than 250 trained Red Cross disaster workers from across the country are already on the ground, and more help is on the way.
“The American Red Cross and our partners are working around the clock in Eastern Kentucky to help those in need,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “We want to help make sure everyone displaced by the floods has a safe place to stay, food to eat, critical relief supplies, emotional support, and comfort in the face of some of the most devastating flooding in years,” she said.
Las Vegas resident Tere Shannon and Pahrump resident Dene Shaver are among the volunteers helping with mass care and sheltering in Lexington. Both have Red Cross disaster training and have contributed to prior relief efforts. “They will join other Red Cross volunteers who are coordinating closely with community and government partners to ensure people have the help they need,” said Flanigan. “I’m so proud of our dedicated Southern Nevada volunteer team members.”
Last night, the Red Cross and partners provided comfort and care for nearly 600 residents in numerous shelters across Eastern Kentucky. Preliminary damage assessments indicate that approximately 350 homes were either destroyed or suffered major damage. “Since last Thursday, teams have provided more than 2,200 overnight stays for residents forced to leave their homes,” Flanigan said. “And we will continue our efforts as the full scope of this disaster continues to come to light.”
You can help
Make a gift to Red Cross Disaster Relief to help people affected by disasters like floods, fires, and countless other crises. Donations enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to, and help people recover from disasters big and small. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
The Disaster Action Team needs you
Disaster Action Team volunteers provide emotional support, access to financial assistance, and valuable information to help families begin to recover. They offer immediate compassion and care when it is needed most. Additional Disaster Action Team volunteers are needed in Southern Nevada to ensure that there is always someone ready to answer the call when a disaster strikes. The Red Cross provides training and support. Learn more: redcross.org/volunteer.
Download our free apps
The Red Cross Emergency app can help keep you and your loved ones safe with real-time alerts, shelter locations, and safety advice. The Red Cross First Aid app provides instant access to information on handling the most common emergencies. Download these free apps by searching for ‘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 visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.