Story told by: Nick Gibson 

The American Red Cross responds to about 65,000 disasters every year. Large disasters like hurricanes, floods and wildfires are becoming more frequent and intense as the climate crisis worsens. 

Because of this, the Red Cross of South Carolina is in need of more shelter heroes to help serve people in our shelters when disaster strikes. 

Shelter heroes are part of a roster of Red Cross volunteers in your community who are trained and prepared to help their neighbors when major catastrophic events happen. For disasters big and small, our volunteers provide comfort during what can be the worst days of people’s lives. 

In mid-May, tornadoes raged through Missouri leaving many communities in shambles and residents with no place to go. Because of this, several shelters were opened in the area, and three SC volunteers raised their hands to help. 

Andi Stewart, Bill Martin, and Robin Keels became shelter supervisors in Missouri. Their main goal was to be there for community members who had lost everything due to this natural disaster. 

“We provide them with a safe place to stay. A lot of people who are here have lost all their possessions. We try to get them something to wear, medications if they lose their medications, whatever we can do to help them,” said Andi Stewart. “My goal is if I can get one person to smile each day, I’m happy.” 

The Red Cross provides food, relief supplies, financial assistance, and comfort to those in need after disasters. 

Andi, Bill, and Robin have years of experience volunteering with the Red Cross in numerous capacities, but they say that sheltering is the most fulfilling position. 

“I’ve been working in shelters for 28 years with the Red Cross. I would encourage anyone that has a sense of compassion for people that are in a very vulnerable situation to consider volunteering and helping out in the shelters,” said Bill. “It’s extremely rewarding.” 

Robin lives in Myrtle Beach, SC and supervised a shelter in Missouri. She decided to host an event for her residents by having a little fun through a dance party. She thought this would lighten up the mood during a very dark time. 

“One of our residents just said, you have made my day. Just to be able to do something that can make them laugh, smile, even if it is just for a few moments, is one of the things we want to do,” said Robin.  

With just a few hours of training, you can become a Shelter Hero in your community and join a dedicated team of Red Cross volunteers ready to comfort those in need. Be the help someone needs - get started today! www.redcross.org/shelterheroesSC