The American Red Cross of Illinois has issued an urgent appeal for volunteers to assist with emergency shelters as the frequency of extreme disasters, such as Hurricane Helene, continues to rise. With the hurricane season in full swing and threats of wildfires looming, the need for dedicated individuals to support relief efforts has never been greater.
Interested candidates are encouraged to sign up at redcross.org/volunteer, where they can complete the necessary training for a two-week deployment. The Red Cross is particularly looking for those who may not have direct disaster experience but possess strong organizational, management, or supervision skills. Individuals who are passionate about helping others and can thrive in dynamic environments are also encouraged to apply.
Celena Sarillo, the Chief Executive Officer of the Illinois Red Cross, emphasized the vital role volunteers play in the organization, stating, “When disasters upend lives, Red Cross volunteers are on the frontlines providing refuge and comfort to people in their darkest hours. They truly are the heart and soul of the Red Cross—comprising 90% of our workforce—to help ensure families never face a crisis alone.”
Over the past weekend in Perry, Florida, Amber Barteau and her family sought refuge at a Red Cross shelter after Hurricane Helene devastated their home for the third time in just over a year. Amber reflected on her experience, saying, “As soon as I pulled up to the shelter, it made me feel good. I thought to myself, this is safe, and I’m going to be OK.”
Currently, more than 900 Red Cross disaster responders are deployed across 10 states severely impacted by Hurricane Helene, including North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, and Florida. As of Sunday night, more than 2,600 individuals sought shelter in 69 emergency locations supported by the Red Cross and other community organizations, with numbers rising as storm-ravaged communities become more accessible.
The Red Cross is also preparing for a prolonged response, anticipating that shelter operations will continue for several weeks due to the extensive destruction caused by the hurricane. As the climate crisis exacerbates the intensity and frequency of disasters, the organization is responding to emergencies on a nearly continuous basis.
In addition to volunteering, there are several ways the public can help in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. Financial donations are the most effective means of delivering immediate assistance, enabling the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to, and support recovery efforts. Donations can be made online at redcross.org or by texting HELENE to 90999.
Moreover, the recent disaster has caused over 1,500 blood donations to go uncollected in the Southeast, highlighting the ongoing need for blood supplies. Those outside the affected areas are encouraged to schedule a blood donation appointment at RedCrossBlood.org or through the Blood Donor App to help replenish essential supplies.
By volunteering or donating, individuals can make a significant impact in the lives of those affected by disasters and help ensure that families receive the support they need during their most challenging times. Visit redcross.org today to learn how you can contribute to this vital cause.
