Press Release: American Red Cross Responds to Wisconsin Floods

Red Cross Services Update

July 27, 2010 – Even after days of disaster relief efforts, American Red Cross volunteers and staff are still assisting families affected by flooding across the state.

Hundreds of volunteers have distributed more than 2,700 clean up kits, which include a variety of clean-up items such as a squeegee, mop, bleach, gloves, and more. Red Cross workers have also served more than 4,000 meals at the shelter, distribution sites and on Emergency Response Vehicles traveling into damaged areas. Casework, Mental Health Services and Health Services volunteers have and continue to work with those affected to make sure their short-term and long-term needs are met.

One of many heartwarming examples of Red Cross compassion includes the Howard family who arrived cold and wet at the Glenn Hills Middle School shelter, with only one thing on their minds—staying together. Their wish was fulfilled, as they found cots, warm blankets and caring volunteers. “It’s been so nice, that we’ve been able to stay together. This was the best place for us,” Mrs. Howard says with a smile. “Reality is setting in. We lost so much, like our baby pictures in the basement. We’ll never get those back. But the most important thing was that we were able to stay together.”

How You Can Help
You can help people affected by disasters like floods, as well as countless crises at home and around the world, by making a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for and provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance in response to disasters. Visit http://www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. Contributions may also be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P. O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013.