Oklahoma tornado damage
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The American Red Cross of West Michigan is deploying 6 disaster volunteers to provide support in Oklahoma after the devastating tornado there on Monday.
More than 300 Red Cross workers from all over the country have been mobilized to help the people in Oklahoma. Deploying volunteers from West Michigan are scheduled to leave within the next 24 hours and will provide essential services to the people affected by the tornado.
The American Red Cross has been providing shelter, food, and other supplies in Oklahoma since Monday, and workers will be there in the days and weeks ahead to offer assistance. About 30 emergency response vehicles are distributing food, water, and relief supplies to people in need. Shelters and emergency aid stations are also open where people can get food, snacks, and emotional support as well as health care services and information about resources that are available.
Those interested in becoming Red Cross Disaster Volunteers are encouraged begin the volunteer application process at redcross.org and sign up for the Disaster Services: An Overview course. The next course is being held on Thursday, May 30 from 1-5 p.m. at the Red Cross office on 1050 Fuller Ave. NE in Grand Rapids. Availability is limited; those interested can also register by calling the Red Cross office at 616-456-8661.
You can help people affected by disasters like tornadoes, floods, and more by making a donation to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. You can donate by visiting redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED-CROSS, or texting REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Your donation helps provide food, shelter, and emotional support to those affected by disasters.
The tornadoes that have hit Oklahoma, Texas, and other states in the past several days are a reminder that tornadoes can happen anywhere at any time. Download the free American Red Cross Tornado App, available on Apple and Android devices. The app gives mobile device users instant access to local and real-time information so they know what to do before, during, and after a tornado.
For more information on how to give, get trained or get involved with the American Red Cross, visit: redcross.org or call 1-800-RED-CROSS.
