Days after landfall, millions of people are still reeling from the heartbreak left behind by Hurricane Helene. The American Red Cross has launched a massive response along the 500-mile path of destruction to ensure no one faces this challenging time alone. More than 900 Red Cross disaster responders, alongside our partners, are working around the clock to get help to those in need. Right now, our focus is on providing safe shelter, meals, emotional support and relief supplies for people facing unimaginable destruction.
Currently, the American Red Cross of Missouri and Arkansas Region has 43 disaster responders from Missouri and Arkansas deployed, of which 23 are from Missouri and 10 are from Arkansas. The responders are in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee.
Locally, in the Southern Missouri Chapter, 2 disaster responders have deployed to support Hurricane Helene.
If you need assistance locating or connecting with a loved one because of Hurricane Helene, please visit https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/contact-and-locate-loved-ones/hurricane-helene-reunification.html and provide as much detail as you can to assist in potentially locating your missing loved one.
During a disaster, communities can be affected by widespread power outages and limited internet connectivity - which can impede communication efforts. If your missing loved one/friend doesn’t meet one of the above criteria, we recommend trying some of these methods:
· Call during off-peak hours for the best chance of getting through
· Send a text message, which may go through when phone calls cannot.
· Check your loved one’s social media pages (i.e., Facebook, Twitter, etc.), as they may have already gone online to tell their story.
· Send an email.
· Call friends and relatives who may have already been in contact with your loved one.
· Call people and places where your loved one is well-known; neighbors, employer, school, place of worship, senior center, social club/center, union, or fraternal organization.
How to help
People affected by Hurricane Helene need help now! You can help by making a financial donation or an appointment to give blood or platelets by visiting redcross.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767). To sign up to become a volunteer, visit www.redcross.org/volunteer.
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.
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