Red Cross Shelters More than 10,000 in Louisiana, Flooding Worst Disaster Since Sandy

FARMINGTON, CT — The American Red Cross is helping thousands of people in Louisiana affected by the devastating flooding there, likely the worst natural disaster since Superstorm Sandy in 2012.

More than 500 disaster volunteers from all over the country are currently on their way to help in Louisiana, according to a release. The organization has also mobilized 60 disaster response vehicles, 40,000 ready-to-eat meals and more than two dozen trailer loads of shelter and kitchen supplies.

Here in the Connecticut and Rhode Island Region of the Red Cross , five of the area’s Red Cross volunteers are joining the massive disaster response by physically deploying to Louisiana.

In addition to the five volunteers who have been physically deployed to Louisiana, an additional eight volunteers have been virtually deployed as call center volunteers. These volunteers will remain local and will take shifts answering calls coming in from the impacted area providing support and assistance to those in need.

Preliminary reports indicate as many as 10,000 homes are damaged, forcing thousands of people from their homes. Those affected are being supported in numerous Red Cross and community shelters where they can find a safe place to stay and food to eat.

Many of the Louisiana Red Cross volunteers helping their neighbors have also been affected by the flooding. The organization is also working closely with the entire response community to coordinate relief efforts and deliver help quickly.

Some of the organizations sending help to the area include Southern Baptist Disaster Relief, the NAACP, Islamic Relief USA, Church of the Brethren Children’s Disaster Services, Save the Children, AmeriCorps, National Civilian Community Corps and Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints volunteers.

“Initial reports indicate responding to this disaster could cost more than $10 million," said American Red Cross Connecticut and Rhode Island Region CEO Mario Bruno. “The Red Cross depends on the generosity of the public to support our work. We urgently need people to join us in supporting Louisiana by making a financial donation today, as well as to consider volunteering to help us provide relief on the ground.”

People can donate by visiting their website, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or texting the word LAFLOODS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.