By: Abby Walker, American Red Cross

More than a week after Hurricane Beryl slammed into Texas, thousands remain without power and an extreme heat wave continues to affect the area. To provide support, the American Red Cross has mobilized hundreds of Red Cross disaster workers, who continue to provide shelter and visit hard hit communities with emergency supplies such as food, water and other critical support.

Several of those disaster workers on the ground are from the Northwest Region, as multiple volunteers from Washington immediately raised their hands to deploy and assist families in the aftermath of this devastating hurricane. A few of them took the time to share their experiences on the ground and motivation for deploying.

Diana Hester: A Heartfelt Commitment

Diana Hester of Everett, Washington, shared her experiences from Texas. “I am honored to be volunteering with so many great individuals from all over the country who also love what Red Cross does for those affected by disaster and the virtues we all stand behind,” she said. Diana landed in San Antonio on July 5th and immediately began helping with sheltering efforts in Laredo. She was impressed by the city’s preparedness and the community’s unity. “The massive shelter they had set up before anyone arrived and the staff and city officials already on the ground showed how much the community sticks together here,” she noted. Diana’s dedication to the mission is evident, as she had just returned from a deployment in south Florida when she received a call that help was needed in Texas. “The past month has been challenging, but it makes my heart happy to be a part of such a great organization,” she said. “I am so grateful to help and be a part of the recovery in the days and weeks to come. I have met many great people and truly enjoy volunteering with the Red Cross.”

Alex Stutzman: A New Perspective

For Americorps member Alex Stutzman, this deployment marks her first experience with a large-scale disaster. Despite the challenges, Alex says she’s thankful for the opportunity to help. “While it’s heartbreaking to see the impact on so many lives, I’m grateful for the opportunity to support those affected,” she shared. Alex has already formed meaningful connections with the people taking shelter in Laredo, Texas and looks forward to continuing her work of bringing support and compassion with the Red Cross. 

Elaine Lancaster: A Lifelong Learner

Elaine Lancaster of Sumner, Washington, was inspired by a friend who has been with the Red Cross for over 15 years. She says she is glad to now have the time and energy to join the efforts. “I do recovery year-round, but every once in a while, I have two weeks so I can deploy,” she said. Elaine views each deployment as a learning adventure and is eager to contribute her skills and compassion to the Red Cross relief efforts in Texas.

As disasters across the country become more frequent and severe, the Red Cross mission to alleviate human suffering in the face of disaster remains crucial for community recovery. At the heart of this mission are the Red Cross volunteers like Diane, Alex and Barbara, who selflessly deploy to the hardest-hit areas to bring relief to families in need.

Interested in volunteering? Communities across the country are counting on the Red Cross to be ready when disasters occur. This summer, turn your compassion into action and volunteer with the Red Cross. Our most-needed disaster positions include supporting shelters and providing health services. We are actively recruiting for these critical volunteer roles.