(Des Moines) The American Red Cross has initiated a large-scale relief effort in response to Hurricane Helene, which caused extensive damage in the Southeast.
The organization has dispatched over 45 emergency response vehicles to deliver aid where it’s needed, with around two dozen more on the way. Where safe, Red Cross disaster responders are accompanying these vehicles, traveling through affected areas to assess the damage and provide meals and relief supplies.
Nearly 1,400 disaster workers are currently providing assistance, and more are on their way. Fifteen volunteers from Iowa are among those supporting the response.
The Red Cross is currently collaborating with partners to address the urgent needs of those impacted by offering safe shelter, food, emotional support, and health services.
Thousands of people affected by Hurricane Helene require immediate assistance. To make a financial donation, you can visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767). Alternatively, individuals can text the word HELENE to 90999. Donations enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to, and aid in the recovery from this disaster.
Ninety percent of the Red Cross workforce is composed of volunteers, and their support is crucial. Those interested in volunteering can visit redcross.org/volunteer to learn more about opportunities to contribute locally or assist in major disasters across the country. Various positions are available, and the Red Cross will help people find the right opportunity based on their skills, interests, and availability.
Additionally, numerous blood drives in the affected region have been canceled due to the storm, resulting in more than 1,500 uncollected blood donations. People outside the affected areas are encouraged to schedule a blood donation appointment through RedCrossBlood.org or the Blood Donor App to help replenish the blood supply. The Red Cross has a national inventory and can transport blood wherever and whenever it’s needed.
