L.A. Red Cross Sets Out For Hurricane Matthew Relief

WESTWOOD—The American Red Cross of Los Angeles sent five emergency response trucks and 10 volunteers east on Monday, October 11, to provide disaster relief to the areas severely affected by Hurricane Matthew.

The Red Cross is working in conjunction with government officials and community partners to coordinate the response effort, which will provide aid to areas hit hardest across South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia.

By the end of this week, more than 100 volunteers from L.A. will be stationed throughout the region, Jarrett Barrios, CEO of the American Red Cross told Canyon News. Volunteers are expected to be deployed for 15 days.

The aforementioned areas have been stricken with power outages and record-breaking flooding, according to reports. The Red Cross’ primary goal is to feed people, Barrios said.

Red Cross disaster-relief vehicles were empty upon their departure from Westwood on Monday, but filled as they neared their destinations; the trucks are equipped with drinking water, ready-to-eat meals, cleaning supplies, comfort kits, insect repellant, shovels and rakes.

Thousands of survivors sought refuge at Red Cross shelters across the east coast; at the height of the hurricane, more than 30,000 residents from communities along the Gulf Coast stayed in those shelters, according to reports.

The Red Cross is seeking support from Southern California residents and urging that those willing, either volunteer or donate; monetary donations support the Red Cross, which accepts donations at RedCross.org or (800) RED-CROSS. Texting the word “Matthew” to 90999 automatically sends $10 towards the relief effort.

“Maybe you can’t volunteer in time to get out to this disaster” Barrios said, “but there’ll be another one.”

Blood and platelet donations are especially needed at this time, according to Red Cross officials. Hurricane Matthew has forced the cancellation of blood drives in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia; donations of blood or platelets can be arranged by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling (800) 733-2767.