[GREENSBURG] — The American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania closed its emergency shelter at the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg after providing 10 nights of emergency support and respite to residents affected by flash flooding in Westmoreland and Allegheny counties.

During this disaster operation, the Red Cross:

• Hosted 12 people and 9 pets for 98 total overnight stays in the emergency shelter
• Served more than 370 meals and 780 snacks
• Distributed 28 comfort kits containing basic personal hygiene supplies
• Surveyed 85 homes with flood and storm damage
• Distributed more than 100 cleanup kits containing industrial tools to help neighbors remove water and silt from their homes 

In coordination with the Westmoreland County Emergency Management Agency, overnight accommodations for individuals and families who remain displaced are being provided at nearby hotels. Residents from an additional 30 homes affected by flooding are also receiving ongoing Red Cross support and assistance.

In the days and weeks ahead, the Red Cross and community partners will work to determine ongoing recovery goals, plan next steps and connect residents with local resources that include solutions for long-term housing and community stability.

“This has been a team effort from the moment we received the call that disaster struck,” said Tessie Amaranto, Executive Director of the Chestnut Ridge chapter of the American Red Cross. “We truly see the best of humanity in times of crisis and I’m so thankful for all of our volunteers and community partners who worked tirelessly to help those affected by the flood.”

LOCAL RESPONSE HELP NEEDED The Red Cross is recruiting new volunteers to help respond to future local emergencies by supporting people in their time of greatest need. Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteers help families with their immediate needs after a fire, flood or other emergency. As a DAT member, you will provide help and hope along with resources to help families recover from disasters. Training is provided. Visit redcross.org/volunteer to get started.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.