American Red Cross
OMAHA, NEBRASKA – SEPTEMBER 30, 2024 — The American Red Cross has launched a massive relief response following Hurricane Helene, which caused destruction across the Southeast.
The Red Cross has deployed more than 45 emergency response vehicles to get help to where needed and about two dozen more are enroute. Where it is safe to do so, Red Cross disaster responders are aboard these vehicles, traveling throughout affected communities, assessing the damage and distributing meals and relief supplies.
Almost 1,400 disaster workers are helping with more on their way. Included among the volunteers supporting the response are six from Nebraska.
Right now, the Red Cross is working with partners to meet the urgent needs of those affected by providing safe shelter, food, emotional support and health services.
How to Help
Thousands of people affected by Hurricane Helene need help now. Visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) to make a financial donations. Individuals can also text the word HELENE to 90999 to make a donation. Donations enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from this disaster.
Ninety percent of the Red Cross workforce is volunteers. Now more than ever, volunteers are needed. Those interested in making a difference at home or across the country can visit redcross.org/volunteer to learn how to become a volunteer. There are opportunities to help locally or deploy to large disasters in other parts of the country. A variety of positions are available, and the Red Cross will help people find the right opportunity, based on the individual’s skills, interests and availability.
This storm has also canceled blood drives throughout the affected region, causing more than 1,500 blood donations to go uncollected. Those outside the affected areas are encouraged to schedule a blood donation appointment now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or using the Blood Donor App to help restock the shelves. Through our national inventory, the Red Cross has the ability to move blood wherever and whenever it is needed most.
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.