As the rains continue to pour in Houston, Texas, tens of thousands of people have been displaced from their homes, and the Red Cross continues to offer support. We spoke with American Red Cross New Jersey’s Southwestern Chapter Director June Sernak to find out how you can help.
Text (or Call) to Donate
Simply send a text to 90999, and you’ll contribute a $10 donation to the relief efforts. Donations can also be made by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS or clicking here.
Give Blood
Red Cross blood collection facilities in Houston and surrounding areas are inaccessible due to the extreme flooding, so the Red Cross is asking people around the country to give blood. You can find your closest drive here.
Become A Volunteer
Red Cross volunteers are providing direct help when disaster strikes. New Jersey Red Cross has deployed 23 people to help care for survivors since the disaster began on Sunday. Their contributions include assisting with mass care feedings, shelter management, spiritual care and emergency response vehicle management.
All it takes to become a volunteer is a background check and training. To sign up, click here.
Learn to Prepare
Sernak stresses the importance of knowing how to react in the event of a natural disaster, no matter where you live. With hurricane season still in full swing through November, she urges everyone to read up on how to prepare.
Sernak suggests visiting the Red Cross store for preparation lists and supplies or following New Jersey Red Cross on Facebook and Twitter for tips.