Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
RENO, Nev. (March 11, 2023) — The American Red Cross of Nevada on Saturday provided emergency supplies, including baby formula, to 17 families on the Yomba Reservation in Rural Nevada, where rising floodwaters made roadways impassable.
The Nevada Department of Emergency Management contacted Red Cross officials with the request from the Yomba Shoshone Tribe, near Gabbs, Nev., on behalf of the more than 60 people stranded with dwindling supplies. Red Cross officials bought the supplies the families needed and provided it to the state for transport to the reservation Saturday afternoon.
“We want to make sure that everyone impacted on the Yomba Reservation has enough food, water and baby formula and diapers until the floodwaters subside,” said Mary Powell, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Nevada Chapter. “I’m proud of our Nevada staff and volunteers who respond at a moment’s notice to help those in need.”
Over the last two years, on average, the Red Cross has responded to a new, major disaster every 10 days. “We see firsthand how families and communities are suffering and depending on us for help with our volunteers continuously on the ground, setting up shelters, arranging for hot meals and offering comfort for people forced from their homes,” Powell said.
You can help
Individuals can help people affected by disasters big and small by making a gift to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Donations enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
These donations also support basic needs for families affected by home fires – which comprise the bulk of Red Cross response efforts – and help ensure the Red Cross can continue educating people nationwide about disaster preparedness so they can cope with crises in their communities.
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 Northern and Rural 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.
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.