Media contact: Sarah Martin
Regional Communications Manager
sarah.martin5@redcross.org | 951-432-9625
SALT LAKE CITY (Oct. 30, 2023) — The American Red Cross of Utah will be hosting a hands-on sheltering simulation at the Cache County Fairgrounds on Monday, Nov. 6. This free event is open to the public, who are welcome to observe how a Red Cross shelter operates during times of disaster and even participate in its operations.
Cache County is partnering with the Red Cross of Utah for this event. Will Lusk, Cache County Emergency Manager, expressed his hopes for the event, saying, “We want our community to understand the importance of preparedness and take this opportunity to expand their skills with us. Familiarity with the sheltering process can save time and lives in a real disaster scenario.”
In 2023 alone, the American Red Cross has responded to 15 disasters that each have caused over a billion dollars in damage, including the Maui wildfires and Guam typhoon. In each of these crises, the Red Cross has been able to provide aid through volunteers trained in disaster sheltering. This local Sheltering Boot Camp provides community members with a glimpse into the operations of Red Cross shelters and an introduction to the organization's disaster response mission.
“Our Sheltering Boot Camp is a vital part of our disaster preparedness efforts,” said Michael Smauldon, Executive Director of the American Red Cross, Northern Utah & Southwest Wyoming Chapter. “Participants will receive hands-on training in client intake, shelter setup and caring for clients' food and medical needs, as well as the important administrative work that happens behind the scenes. We hope community members will join us to learn more about disaster response and consider volunteering with us in the future.”
Sheltering Boot Camp Details
When: November 6, 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Where: Cache County Event Center and Fairgrounds, 450 S 500W, Logan
Call for Community Partners in Food Services
In preparation for potential disasters, the Red Cross of Utah is seeking partnerships with commercial food service providers willing to donate food for shelter clients. If you provide food services in Cache County and would like to support our disaster preparedness efforts, please contact Sarah Marshall, Disaster Program Manager, at sarah.marshall@redcross.org or 385-320-1322.
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.