Utah Red Cross deploys volunteers to Florida ahead of Hurricane Milton
Oct 7, 2024, 11:00 AM | Updated: Dec 17, 2024, 5:46 pm
An aerial view of flood-damaged Unicoi County Hospital in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024, in Erwin, Tenn. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)
(AP Photo/George Walker IV)
ORLANDO, Fla. — The Utah American Red Cross deployed seven volunteers to Florida ahead of Hurricane Milton.
According to a press release from the American Red Cross, Hurricane Milton is the second significant storm expected to hit Florida recently.
The Associated Press reported that some storm models suggest it could make landfall as early as Wednesday.
Some areas of Florida are already recovering from the destruction brought by Hurricane Helene. The Red Cross said that over 2,000 people are already helping with relief efforts in Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas.
“Our volunteers are stepping up once again, providing critical support as Florida braces for another major hurricane,” said Michael Smauldon, the American Red Cross Northern Utah and Southwest Wyoming chapter’s executive director.
Along with volunteers, the Red Cross is sending supplies and vehicles. Per the press release, they are also coordinating with local emergency personnel to provide support at evacuation centers.
Interested in helping?
The Red Cross said that the U.S. has already seen a record number of tornadoes, catastrophic floods, extreme heat, and devastating wildfires. Twenty of them have caused billions of dollars in damage.
As recovery efforts continue in the wake of Hurricane Helene, the Red Cross said that it is looking for volunteers.
Currently, volunteers are working to manage shelters and provide support and meals to those impacted.
Red Cross’ press release encouraged those with supervision, management, or organization skills to apply, even if they haven’t experienced a disaster.
“Candidates must complete required training and commit to a two-week deployment,” read the press release.
For those uninterested or unable to volunteer, you can also donate. According to the Red Cross, any contribution helps with preparing and responding to disaster situations.
Donations can be made by calling 1-800-733-2767, texting “REDCROSS” to 90999, or visiting the Red Cross website.
Related:
- Utah American Red Cross volunteer describes devastation, need in areas hit by Hurricane Helene
- Missionaries helping with Hurricane Helene relief efforts
