May 26, 2024 — The American Red Cross of Central & South Texas continues to address the needs of residents affected by the tornadoes that swept through the Temple area on Wednesday, May 22.

The Red Cross has mobilized local disaster workers – 90 percent of whom are volunteers – to assist residents in need. Our teams are working closely with local community partners, emergency management and elected officials across the impacted areas to evaluate residents’ needs.

The Red Cross plays a critical role in helping families and communities recover in the weeks and months following a disaster. Here are the latest updates on the response effort:
 

• Damage Assessments: Red Cross volunteers are completing preliminary residential damage assessments in affected communities to better understand the assistance families may need on their path to recovery.
• Shelter Services: The Red Cross shelter has provided overnight stays for more than 47 residents since opening Wednesday night at the Wilson Park Recreation Center, located at 2205 Curtis B. Elliot Dr., Temple, TX 76501.
• Emergency Supplies: Red Cross emergency response vehicles continue to deliver emergency supplies to people in the hardest hit areas.

The Red Cross will participate in the distribution of additional emergency supplies at Lake Belton High School, 9809 Farm to Market 2483, Temple, TX 76502 through the operational period. The center is open from 8 am to 6 pm.

Anyone impacted by the tornadoes is encouraged to call 1-800-RED CROSS (733-2767) for assistance.

FIND A SHELTER

Anyone who has been affected by the tornado is welcome to stop by the shelter at the Wilson Park Recreation Center shelter to get information, a hot meal, charge their phone, pick up relief supplies and get other essential support. Find open shelters on redcross.org, the free Red Cross Emergency app or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS and selecting the disaster option. You can also find shelters by following your local county and city officials on social media or monitoring local news.

HOW TO HELP

People can make a difference in the lives of those affected by disasters big and small. Call 1-800-RED CROSS or visit www.redcross.org to make a donation to Disaster Relief. Your donation enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters.

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.