American Red Cross deploys additional disaster responders from Missouri and Arkansas to support Hurricane Helene relief efforts

October 01, 2024

Days after landfall, millions of people are still reeling from the heartbreak left behind by Hurricane Helene. The American Red Cross has launched a massive response along the 500-mile path of destruction to ensure no one faces this challenging time alone. More than 900 Red Cross disaster responders, alongside our partners, are working around the clock to get help to those in need. Right now, our focus is on providing safe shelter, meals, emotional support and relief supplies for people facing unimaginable destruction.
Currently, the American Red Cross of Missouri and Arkansas Region has 45 disaster responders from Missouri and Arkansas deployed, of which 34 are from Missouri and 11 are from Arkansas. The responders are in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee.
Locally, from the Central and Northern Missouri Chapter, 5 disaster responders have deployed to support Hurricane Helene.
If you need assistance locating or connecting with a loved one because of Hurricane Helene, please visit https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/contact-and-locate-loved-ones/hurricane-helene-reunification.html and provide as much detail as you can to assist us in potentially locating your missing loved one.During a disaster, communities can be affected by widespread power outages and limited internet connectivity - which can impede communication efforts. If your missing loved one/friend doesn’t meet one of the above criteria, we recommend trying some of these methods:

Call during off-peak hours for the best chance of getting through.

Send a text message, which may go through when phone calls cannot.

Check your loved one’s social media pages (i.e., Facebook, Twitter, etc.), as they may have already gone online to tell their story.

Send an email

Call friends and relatives who may have already been in contact with your loved one.

Call people and places where your loved one is well-known; neighbors, employer, school, place of worship, senior center, social club/center, union, or fraternal organization.

How to help People affected by Hurricane Helene need help now! You can help by making a financial donation or an appointment to give blood or platelets by visiting redcross.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767). To sign up to become a volunteer, visit www.redcross.org/volunteer.