Red Cross helps with flood relief efforts, opens shelters in the area

By SARAH THOMACK
St. Joseph Post

The American Red Cross works to be prepared ahead of time for any type of disaster, including flooding, that may occur.

“Know that the Red Cross is prepared,” said Angie Springs, Communications and Marketing Officer for the American Red Cross of Greater Kansas City and Northwest Missouri. “This is something that we do long before the flood happens, is to be prepared with shelter locations identified, volunteers that are trained and ready to go at the drop of a hat to open shelters wherever they’re needed.”

Springs said they have also been providing meals for those helping with sandbagging efforts and are in constant contact with local emergency management and county commissioners so they can help with any future needs.

Springs said there are three shelters currently open in the area for anyone who may need to evacuate their home. In Troy, the Troy Community Building at 1217 Last Chance Road is open as a shelter, in St. Joseph, the Keys Church at 6002 S 9th Street is open and in Mound City, the First Christian Church at 402 5th Street is open.

If anyone needs to go to a shelter, Springs said they suggest bringing clothing for a few days, bedding, toiletries, essential medications, your emergency kit and, if you have children, bring a stuffed animal or other comfort items.

Anyone in need of assistance can call the Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS. To find the nearest shelter go to redcross.org/shelter.

Springs said anyone who would like to help those affected by the flooding is encouraged to volunteer or make a financial contribution to the Red Cross for disaster relief.

“We are devastated, not only in this area, but also in Nebraska, Iowa, we’re dealing with flooding clear on down the United States, throughout the core of the United States,” Springs said. “So we’re in it for the long haul and are going to be there to help these folks pick up the pieces after the floodwaters go down and we’re going to be there to hope that tomorrow’s a little brighter.”

To sign up to be a Red Cross volunteer, or to make a donation, go to redcross.org.