DETROIT (Sept. 30, 2024) – The American Red Cross has launched a massive response along the 500-mile path of destruction caused by Hurricane Helene to ensure no one faces this challenging time alone.

More than 900 Red Cross disaster responders,  alongside its partners, are working around the clock to get help to those in need. Right now, the focus is on providing safe shelter, meals, emotional support and relief supplies.

As of Monday, 36 Red Cross volunteers from Michigan – up from 16 last week – are deployed to disaster relief operations in Florida, North Carolina, Tennessee and Georgia. Four disaster relief vehicles are also deployed.

“It will be days before we know the full scope of the damage and it will take time to reach all of those who need help. A disaster of this magnitude – one that devastates critical infrastructure across a wide  geographic area packed with people – requires a team effort,” said Latoysa “Toy” Rooks, regional disaster officer for the Red Cross Michigan Region. “We are working closely with local officials, government agencies and other nonprofits to make sure people get the help they need as quickly as possible.” 

Sunday night, more than 2,600 people stayed in 69 emergency shelters supported by the Red Cross and other community organizations. So far, the Red Cross and its partners have provided some 18,000 overnight stays for Helene.

In some of the hardest hit areas that are accessible, 60 Red Cross emergency response vehicles are distributing meals, water and critical relief supplies. Four disaster response vehicles from Michigan are deployed.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

MAKE A DONATION:  Financial donations for Hurricane Helene enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from this disaster. You can also text the word HELENE to 90999 to make a donation.

GIVE BLOOD:  The Red Cross is working to restock critically needed blood products after the cancellation of blood drives across the Southeast, causing more than 1,500 blood donations to go uncollected. Those outside the affected areas are encouraged to schedule a blood donation appointment now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or using the Blood Donor App to help restock the shelves.

VOLUNTEER:  If you want to make a difference in the lives of others, consider putting on a red vest and joining us. Visit redcross.org/volunteer to find out how you can support your community.

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MEDIA CONTACT: David Olejarz / david.olejarz@redcross.org / 313-303-0606

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 follow us on social media.