Virginia Red Cross volunteers head to Florida as Hurricane Helene approaches

HENRICO COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — The American Red Cross of Virginia, which is located in western Henrico County, sent two central Virginians to Florida ahead of the expected arrival of Hurricane Helene on Thursday, Sept. 26.

“They join with over 300 Red Crossers from across the country to support communities in the path of Hurricane Helene,” said Red Cross of Virginia Communications Director Jonathan McNamara. “This is a massive mobilization for the Red Cross.”

McNamara said he has personally been deployed to the area and the Red Cross has sent volunteers to Tallahassee in the past. The most recent hurricane to rip through the area was Debby.

“It’s a strong [and] resilient area that, unfortunately, is no stranger to these types of storms,” McNamara said. “We’ll bear that experience in this type of event so that we can make sure that we know what supplies are needed, what materials are needed.”

While bringing resources is important, McNamara said there’s more to the job.

“Sending volunteers who have a tremendous amount of experience responding to these types of events to help be a shoulder to cry on at times, but also to be people who have the expertise and knowledge to help them navigate the insurance process, navigate, working with groups like FEMA.”

McNamara said there are already 2,500 displaced individuals at shelters in the Tallahassee area, where the central Virginia volunteers are headed.

“These volunteers will pick up supplies from Red Cross distribution centers close to the impact areas, and then, we work over the days and weeks to come in a variety of different functions to help these people recover.”

The vans are equipped with first aid kits, hot meals, essential relief supplies and more.

Hurricane Helene is expected to strengthen after making landfall in Florida. While Virginia will not face the storm’s direct impact, McNamara said it’s a good reminder to always be prepared.

“We’re still early in hurricane season,” he said. “There could be additional storms that could impact the Commonwealth, so making sure you have an emergency preparedness kit and a plan in place is a great way to be prepared, not only for hurricane season but the rest of the year.”

For updates on the volunteers journeys, visit the Virginia Red Cross’ social media pages .

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