The American Red Cross is helping people in Colorado and other Western states where flash flooding has forced thousands of people from their homes.

“Our response in Colorado is growing by the hour as entire towns are evacuated and the need for shelter increases,” said Richard Reed, senior vice president, Disaster Cycle Services for the Red Cross. “We’re moving additional supplies, workers and response vehicles to the region to ensure people get the help they need.”

The Red Cross is working closely with emergency management officials, the Colorado National Guard and local community organizations to support shelters and evacuation centers in numerous locations for residents affected by the flooding. Red Cross workers are providing a safe place for people forced to evacuate, as well as blankets, cots, meals and emotional support.   In the days to come, the Red Cross will be supporting Disaster Assistance Centers by offering relief supplies and other recovery support.

“As many as 500 people stayed in 14 shelters Monday night in Colorado and more than 400 trained Red Cross disaster workers are staffing shelters and evacuation centers said Janet Karcher, Executive Director local Red Cross.  “The Red Cross has mobilized more than 20 response vehicles and six truckloads of relief supplies.”

The Red Cross is also working with partners such as the Salvation Army and Southern Baptist Convention to provide food and water for evacuees and emergency responders and have served more than 10,000 meals and snacks.

How To Help: People across the flooded areas need help now.  The Red Cross has launched a massive relief effort to help people in Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas and needs the continued support of the public to help those affected.  People can make a donation to support Red Cross Disaster Relief by visiting www.redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) OR texting the words REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. Contributions may also be sent to the local Red Cross Chapter, 901 Avenue B Brownwood, Texas 76801 or contact the local office at (325) 646-0196.

About the American Red Cross: The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies more than 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or join our blog at http://blog.redcross.org.