Multiple major wildfires in southern California have led to the evacuation of thousands and have tragically resulted in 11 confirmed deaths. In response to this devastating situation, numerous individuals are stepping up to provide disaster relief, collaborating closely with the American Red Cross.
Even though they were thousands of miles away, the destruction in Los Angeles County was impossible for some South Dakotans to overlook. Numerous volunteers from the upper Midwest have already traveled to the frontlines to offer their assistance.
With the increasing number of displaced families, the need for relief becomes more urgent.
According to Rob Reuland, the Disaster Program Manager for the Eastern South Dakota Chapter of the American Red Cross, the Minnesota-Dakotas Region takes the lead in sending volunteers to national disasters.
According to Reuland, a large number of volunteers from the three-state region have answered the call for help today. It is truly inspiring to witness our volunteers’ willingness to do whatever it takes to assist those in need.
Large disasters across the country necessitate a significant amount of resources, even for organizations like the Red Cross that are involved at a local level. This is evident in the current situation where hundreds of volunteers are still deployed in the eastern part of the country, assisting with the aftermath of hurricanes Milton and Helene.
“I recently came back from North Carolina earlier this Fall,” reminisced Reuland. “I immediately responded after the hurricanes hit the area. Witnessing people from diverse backgrounds coming together to offer assistance, shelter, and comfort to those affected by the disaster was an incredibly fulfilling experience.”
The exact number of South Dakotans who have answered the call to volunteer this time is not yet known. The situation is constantly changing, and every day, Reuland witnesses an increasing number of volunteers ready to be deployed. Additionally, plans are underway to send a vehicle and trailer with supplies in the upcoming week to aid those who have been left with nothing.
According to Reuland, the main focus of the American Red Cross at the moment is to provide safe shelter and food for those who have been displaced.
There are several significant ways in which you can provide assistance, including donating blood, contributing financially, or volunteering your time and skills.
If you have any inquiries or would like to contribute to the disaster relief efforts of the American Red Cross, you can visit their website at RedCross.org or contact them at 1-800-Red-Cross.