"On the back of their vest it says disaster relief, but it is more than just material relief, it’s emotional relief, just friendship and love, relief in many many ways," explained shelter residents Karen and Keith Ellis after their home was flooded during the storms in Liberty County.

Señora Magdalena has a compound of three homes outside of Cleveland, Texas, where she has lived with her three adult children and their families. When the floods came at the end of last month, the eleven family members were forced to escape their homes.

At the Red Cross shelter, Red Crosser Alexis Gonzalez shared a heartwarming moment with Serenity, a 4-year-old resident. Alexis embraced Serenity warmly, struck by her smile and energy, which brightened the spirits of everyone around her.

As Hurricane Beryl struck the Gulf Coast, it left people without power and needing a place to keep cool. When disaster strikes, communities come together, like the partnership between the American Red Cross and the National Spiritual Council Coalition.

Volunteer Jose enjoys serving others. “I like going to represent the Red Cross, especially since I have a disability. But I don’t let that get in the way,” Jose said. “My motto is, not my disability but my ability to help others.”

Ruben used his strength to hold Norma's window shut as wind gusts from Hurricane Berly ripped it open. All their food expired. "We lost our groceries, but this food and water the Red Cross gave us will help us live another day.” Norma says.

Living in a shelter is not easy for anyone but Red Cross volunteers help make it easier for kids and families in shelters by providing care and comfort. Sharing moments of joy with shelter residents can make all the difference.

When you walk into the emergency shelter at Calvary Baptist Church, you might feel like you have instead walked into a summer camp. You will see kids running around the middle of an open gymnasium, a fort sitting happily behind a pile of books and toys.