(HICKORY, N.C., May 18, 2018) – Rain has overwhelmed much of western North Carolina the past few days, and has resulted in some community evacuations. Working with emergency management partners, the American Red Cross serving the Blue Ridge Piedmont has opened a shelter in Caldwell County for families impacted by today’s storms. Red Cross disaster trained responders have been mobilized to provide relief and comfort to families impacted, as well as providing feeding to first responders.

“A shelter has been opened in Caldwell County to provide safe refuge for anyone who has been impacted by storms,” said Scott Loudermelt, executive director, Red Cross Blue Ridge Piedmont Chapter. “Our volunteers stand ready to respond should additional shelters or assistance be needed. Flooding can be extremely dangerous, damaging and can be deadly. We urge our neighbors to follow guidance from local emergency management officials.”

SHELTER ADDRESSES

Collettsville School

4690 Collettsville School Road

Collettsville, NC 28611

A second shelter is on standby in Watauga County.

People may check shelter availability and whether a shelter is open on the Red Cross Emergency App. It may be downloaded in your mobile phone app store or you may text “GETEMERGENCY” to 90999. For flood safety tips, visit http://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/flood.

The Red Cross encourages anyone coming to a shelter to bring the following items for each member of their family:

• Prescriptions and emergency medications
• Foods that meet unusual dietary requirements
• Identification to show residence is in affected area and important personal documents
• Extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies and other comfort items
• Supplies needed for children and infants, such as diapers, formula and toys
• Special items for family members who are elderly or disabled
• Chargers for any electronic devices you bring with you
• Books, games and other ways to entertain your family and yourself

HOW YOU CAN HELP

The Red Cross mission is delivered through the commitment and passion of its volunteers. Whether you have 4 hours a month or 4 hours a day, there’s a place for you. If interested in joining the Red Cross, discover the possibilities at redcross.org/volunteer.

The Red Cross is able to deploy resources where needed, and to provide services here at home thanks to the generosity of our donors. Anyone wishing to help the Red Cross provide assistance to people impacted by disasters such as tornadoes, floods or home fires may donate at redcross.org/wnc, by calling 800-RED-CROSS or by texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.