Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
SALT LAKE CITY (Jan. 24, 2023) — This past week, about 15 Red Cross of Utah disaster staff and trained volunteers joined the relief efforts for victims of floods in California and tornados in Alabama and Georgia. Today, nearly 1,000 Red Cross disaster relief workers from across the country are on the ground in the devastated areas of those states.
“At a moment’s notice last week, our staff and volunteers stopped everything in their lives and deployed across the country to help those in need,” said Heidi Ruster, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region. “We are making sure everyone impacted by flooding and tornadoes has a safe place to stay, food to eat, critical relief supplies, and emotional support.”
The Red Cross and its partners in the three affected states have provided more than 8,500 stays in 85 shelters, more than 60,000 meals and snacks, and more than 10,000 relief items, such as comfort kits and other supplies.
“Red Cross volunteers are also helping families meet critical health needs – from replacing prescriptions and eyeglasses to medical equipment, such as canes and wheelchairs,” Ruster said. “And while delivering all types of assistance, we’re also thinking about the future and planning how to help affected communities and families recover in the months and years ahead.”
How can you help?
Make a gift to American Red Cross Disaster Relief, which enables us to prepare for, respond to, and help people recover from disasters big and small. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.
Join the Disaster Action Team of specialized, trained volunteers that provide emotional support, access to financial assistance, and valuable information to help families begin to recover. More volunteers are needed in Utah and nationwide to ensure that there is always someone ready to answer the call when disaster strikes.
For more information and to sign up for a volunteer position in the Salt Lake City area and Northern Utah, contact Julie Schwartz at julie.schwartz@redcross.org or 385-258-5310 or visit RedCross.org/volunteertoday. To volunteer in Central or Southern Utah, contact Bonnie Cook at bonnie.cook@redcross.org or 702-268-3207 or visit RedCross.org/volunteertoday.
Be ready for the unexpected. Download the free App today.
The Red Cross Emergency app can help keep you and your loved ones safe with real-time alerts, shelter locations, and safety advice. The Red Cross First Aid app provides instant access to information on handling the most common emergencies. Download these free apps by searching for “American Red Cross” in your app store or visit RedCross.org/apps.
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.