By: Kate Walters, American Red Cross

It has been a long road for citizens of Ridge Manor and surrounding areas post Hurricane Milton.  Residents are dealing with fully submerged cars, homes surrounded by water on all sides and impassable roads with only one way in and out of the neighborhood.  As residents continue to deal with their new reality, Red Cross volunteers continue to answer the call for help.

Disaster Health Services volunteers Carolyn Harrel from Arizona and Linda Youngblood from Michigan have been stationed at the Ridge Manor Community Center, working alongside local good Samaritan Connie Wilson to support residents as they await the receding of the Withlacoochee River.

Their combined efforts bring hope and comfort to those facing challenges during this difficult time.  Their work involves assisting residents with a variety of needs. For instance, Youngblood recently encountered a veteran in need of a refill for his diabetes medication. She helped coordinate a plan to have the medication delivered to the water’s edge, where a neighbor with a boat could transport it to the veteran’s flood-isolated home. UPS will handle the medication delivery, and Connie Wilson will ensure it reaches the veteran. In addition, Youngblood has helped residents manage transportation to medical appointments and has provided essential guidance on safely navigating contaminated waters.

Harrel and Youngblood also make sure that residents who come in for supplies receive wellness checks. Recently, they encouraged a man covered in insect bites to visit urgent care. While these acts might seem small, they make a significant difference.

Both women have backgrounds in the medical field, making them adept problem solvers. “We just kind of brainstorm different ways to help people overcome their challenges,” Youngblood shared, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to the community.

If you would like to help the Red Cross disaster response, visit redcross.org, or call 1-800-REDCROSS. To become a volunteer, visit redcross.org/volunteer.