We have all heard about the floods devastating Louisiana in recent weeks and our hearts go out to all the victims. Sadly, it has been called the ‘forgotten storm’, although this is the largest natural disaster in the United States since Superstorm Sandy hit in 2012. The Red Cross has been on the ground since day one, and we are incredibly proud of the determination and commitment shown from the 2,500 Red Crossers who have answered the call from all 50 states. Our ability to respond has always relied heavily on our core of volunteers, and in this disaster they make up over 90 percent of our responders.
By partnering with other organizations, we are working hard to meet the needs of many victims who have lost everything. We have vehicles traveling around the area providing meals and essential items, and our shelters are providing hot food, comfortable lodging, and the intangibles like emotional care that are so critical for people to begin to heal. Our caseworkers are on site or on the phone walking victims through the early stages of recovery, and we will be there every step of the way as they begin the long road back to their normal lives.
Support from the community and beyond has been outstanding, and you can help the people affected by the Louisiana flooding by making a financial contribution today by visiting redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or texting the word LAFLOODS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. While we acknowledge the spirit of in-kind donations, financial donations allow us to empower the families who understand their own needs better than anyone else.
