Local Red Cross volunteers deployed to assist with Sandy relief efforts

The American Red Cross has a huge relief response underway to the region affected by Hurricane Sandy, providing people across a number of states with a safe place to stay, food to eat and comfort during this difficult time, according to the Red Cross.
Thousands of people have spent the night in hundreds of Red Cross shelters since the storm began its onslaught on the country. The Red Cross has already served more than 100,800 meals and snacks and mobilized more than 2,300 disaster workers and almost 200 emergency vehicles so far, and more are being deployed.
The Greater Long Beach and Rio Hondo chapters of the American Red Cross have deployed eight local volunteers who are helping in feeding, disaster mental health, sheltering and other Red Cross services in New Jersey and New York: Mitch Henry, feeding; Ralph Ilhe, disaster mental health; Rita Hooker, feeding; Linda Timmons, feeding; Carlos Rodriguez, public affairs; Roy Hanson, logistics; Roland Barnes, sheltering; and Wilhelmina Mussman, sheltering.
“This response to Sandy is just getting started. The storm has left devastation in its wake, and we will be helping people for weeks to come,” said Margaret Arbini Madonna, CEO of the Greater Long Beach and Rio Hondo Chapters. “This will be very costly, and the Red Cross needs help now. We ask everyone to support us as we help people recover from this massive storm.”
People can make a financial donation by visiting redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or texting REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Contributions may also be sent to the Greater Long Beach Chapter, 3150 E. 29th St., Long Beach, CA 90806.
The storm has also caused the cancellation of hundreds of Red Cross blood drives, resulting in a loss of as many as 11,000 blood products. Those who are eligible are asked to schedule a blood donation now, especially if they live outside the areas impacted by the storm. To schedule a donation time or get more information about giving blood, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). To give blood, an individual must be at least 17 years of age, meet weight and height requirements and be in general good health. Donors should bring their Red Cross blood donor card or other form of positive ID with them. Some states allow 16-year-olds to give with parental consent.

Source: Red Cross