Tens of thousands of people in Florida are struggling with the devastation left behind by Hurricane Ian, one of the largest disasters ever to hit the state. In response, more than 1,500 American Red Cross disaster workers from all 50 states and the District of Columbia are on the ground across the affected communities in Florida, delivering urgent relief, a large-scale relief effort that is only beginning.

“To all coping with unthinkable loss and trauma: the Red Cross is here for you, and we will continue to stand alongside you in the days, weeks, and months ahead,” said Jill Palmer, Executive Director, American Red Cross Florida Gulf Coast to Heartland Chapter.

Last night, Red Cross operated four shelters in Lee, Highlands, Manatee, and DeSoto Counties, where Red Cross volunteers and employees are on site providing a safe place to sleep, food, as well as health and emotional support for those forced from their homes due to Hurricane Ian.

Everyone is welcome at Red Cross emergency shelters. They are a place where you can eat a hot meal, charge your phone, and get connected to resources.

Anyone across the areas impacted by Hurricane Ian can find safe shelter by visiting redcross.org or by downloading the Emergency app (search “American Red Cross” in your app store or by going to redcross.org/apps). You can also visit floridadisaster.org to find an emergency shelter.

Red Cross teams are mounting a large food and supply distribution effort, with volunteers in the affected communities delivering food, water, and relief items, with more personal and delivery routes on the ground every day.

YOU CAN HELP people affected by Hurricane Ian by visiting redcross.org/donate, calling 1-800-RED CROSS, or texting the word IAN to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Your gift is a commitment to helping people in need, and every single donation matters. Financial donations enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to, and help people recover from this disaster.