North Carolina, August 11, 2023 – Seven disaster-trained volunteers from the American Red Cross of North Carolina Region are deploying to support disaster relief operations in Hawaii. Our thoughts are with everyone in Hawaii affected by what are some of the deadliest U.S. wildfires in recent history. The American Red Cross is there, providing shelter and comfort to those affected by the massive fires. 

“As Red Cross volunteers, we deploy when possible, anywhere there is a need, knowing that at any time our local community may be affected as well and Red Crossers will answer that call” said Red Cross volunteer, Lisa Phinney, of Boone, NC, who is deploying to Hawaii on Friday. “We commit to providing the best care possible for all citizens. I am honored to be able to respond with the Red Cross Reunification Team and hope we can mitigate some stressors for the people of Hawaii.”

“I just want to help others in need,” said Red Cross of North Carolina volunteer, Tommy Byerly, of Troy, who is also deploying to Hawaii on Saturday. “Right now, Hawaii is in need.”

Conditions on Maui are improving as firefighters gain control of the fires. However, there are still dangerous areas and it is critical that people avoid these hot spots and evacuate immediately if asked to do so. Don’t return home until it is safe. We encourage safety and being out of harm’s way above all.

The American Red Cross is working around the clock to help those affected. Trained Red Cross disaster workers responded immediately, opening shelters to provide refuge from the fires. With officials and partners, our teams are providing evacuees with a safe place to stay, food to eat and emotional support during this challenging time. We are preparing to expand relief efforts if needed. When it is safe to do so, Red Cross teams will help with damage assessment and begin distributing relief supplies.

The Red Cross of North Carolina stands ready to deploy more Disaster-Trained workers as needed.

YOU CAN HELP people affected by disasters like fires and countless other crises by making a gift to Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767), or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

For those interested in helping people specifically affected by the Hawaii Wildfires, we ask that they write “Hawaii Wildfires” in the memo line of a check and mail it with a completed donation form to the address on the form or to their local Red Cross chapter.

BECOME A VOLUNTEER Every day, the American Red Cross sees the heartbreak of people trying to cope with more intense storms, heavier rainfall, higher temperatures, stronger hurricanes, and more devastating wildfires. As more people rely on the Red Cross for help, the need for compassionate volunteers has never been greater. This spring, consider volunteering with the American Red Cross in one of our urgently needed volunteer opportunities. Learn more at redcross.org/volunteer

CLIMATE CRISIS The climate crisis is driving extreme weather conditions across the country with the ongoing flooding in the Northeast and extreme heat in the south as examples. Some experts say with the arrival of El Niño in the Pacific Ocean, the situation may get worse. As these extreme weather disasters increase, more people need help from the Red Cross. Find out more about the Red Cross and its work on the climate crisis here.

About the American Red Cross: 
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation’s blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families.  The Red Cross is a charitable organization – not a government agency – and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org/NC or @RedCrossNC