SAN DIEGO — Heartbreaking scenes of devastation from the Southeast. First hit hard two weeks ago by hurricane Helene and then Milton. It could be days or even weeks before we know the extent of the damage, but more than a dozen San Diegans are on the ground right now in some of the hardest hit areas answering the call to help.
The American Red Cross quickly mobilized, offering water, snacks, and a safe place to sleep. Things many of us take for granted every day were suddenly gone for thousands of people across the Southeastern part of the country. Volunteers are now trying to bring a sense of normalcy to the chaos.
“There's 13 people from San Diego County in the impacted area - that that's Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas,” said Naomi Nolte-Carroll, a National Red Cross Spokesperson. She says the first crews from our area arrived about two weeks ago and more are packed and ready to go.
“There are added people on standby to go out, maybe in the coming days or weeks, because let's not forget, it might take days to even get a grasp on how big the devastation is in Florida right now and this response will continue for weeks and months to come.”
The hurricanes flooded major roads, tore off roofs, knocked trees onto homes, and as if that wasn't enough, tornadoes hit Florida between the storms causing even more damage.
“We're providing everything from a safe place to stay, food, and water,” Nolte-Carroll said. “People can come in just for a shower or place to charge their devices.” They are also providing a safe place for pets and mental health services.
The volunteers are going through supplies fast, but they are asking you to please not donate any specific items at this time.
“People donating goods diverts time and resources away from our mission of taking care of those that need it the most right now,” Nolte-Carroll said. “So the best way to make an impact through the Red Cross is really to make a financial donation.”
The Red Cross is also looking for more volunteers willing to help in disasters. And while the training takes too long for you to assist with this assignment, the Red Cross says, unfortunately, they know there will be a next one.
For more information on donating or volunteering, visit the Red Cross website. https://www.redcross.org/