American Red Cross helps Californians affected by aggressive wildfires

More than a week has passed and the catastrophe caused by the wildfires in Southern California continues, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake.

According to the latest official report so far, 25 people have died as a result of the fires in Los Angeles. Of these, 17 were victims of the Eaton Fire, which is the fifth deadliest wildfire in the history of the state of California, and 8 of the Palisades Fire.

The number is expected to continue to rise as the investigation and body identification process continues.

Meanwhile, evacuation orders continue for about 92,000 Los Angeles County residents.

Organizations such as the American Red Cross have responded immediately, helping those affected by the fires, many of the residents have lost their homes in the blink of an eye. Thousands of structures have been damaged and Californians are facing the trauma and massive devastation of the wildfires.

Already, more than 400 American Red Cross workers are reportedly working together to ensure that no one faces this heartbreaking time alone.

“We are working closely with our partners to provide food, shelter, emotional support and other critical services,” the nonprofit says.

It is important to remember that the threat is not over, as dangerous fire weather conditions continue with winds up to 70 mph fanning the flames. In addition, many utilities are being shut off to help prevent further fires.

It is still time for people to remain alert, be prepared to evacuate and follow instructions from local authorities.

In an effort to address the emergency, more than 700 evacuees are in Red Cross shelters in recent days, many of whom are struggling after losing everything.

The American Red Cross reminds the community that its shelters are a safe place for all people.

It is very relevant that if you need a place to shelter, receive food or sleep you can go to Red Cross shelters. This non-profit organization reminds that it does not ask for identification and it is not necessary to stay overnight to receive help.

Therefore, it is important that if you need to find the location of shelters in CruzRojaAmericana.org, in the free Red Cross Emergency app or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

It also reported in a statement that disaster health volunteers are treating minor injuries and restocking items such as eyeglasses and medications to those in our shelters.

Another action being taken by the Red Cross is that its mental health workers are providing emotional support to those experiencing unimaginable loss.

On the other hand, Red Cross social workers are also helping shelter residents create personal plans for their next steps and connecting them with other community resources.

The Red Cross explains that the main priority is housing, but they also help people with transportation, health, childcare and other needs, recognizing that it is a painful time for those facing loss and the uncertainty of what comes next.

The Red Cross also notes that many people are still trying to find their loved ones and have received hundreds of requests for help.

As such, they remind you that if you need help locating a loved one missing from the fires, the Red Cross may be able to help.

So we remind you to visit CruzRojaAmericana.org/localizarfamilia or contact us at 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). To make this assistance easier, please provide as many details as possible to assist us in possibly locating your missing loved one.

Finally, it is important for you to know that families are now depending on the Red Cross for help, so please also remember that your support is needed by visiting CruzRojaAmericana.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or texting the word “CAWILDFIRES” to 90999 to make a donation. Your donation enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from these disasters.

Another way to help is through the blood drive. Donors of all blood types – particularly O-negative blood donors and those who donate platelets – are needed to help save lives. When it is safe to do so, we encourage people to schedule an appointment to donate blood through the Red Cross Blood Donor app at RedCrossBlood.org/english or by phone at 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Finally, remember that the climate crisis affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds; however, it is most catastrophic for people with limited resources, who tend to suffer the most in the aftermath of disasters.