MN and WI Volunteers Aid Wildfire Recovery

DULUTH, Minn. — Red Cross Volunteers from Minnesota and Wisconsin are helping recovery efforts in California from historic wildfires.

Volunteers have been quick to respond to the recent wildfires that have decimated parts of Los Angeles County. The Northern Minnesota Red Cross announced that some of their volunteers are already on the ground in the effected areas.

The Minnesota’s Director said that after a disaster like this,
the first concern is, where should people go?

“So the immediate need, after a disaster like this is having a place for people to go,” said Executive Director of Northern & Central Minnesota Red Cross Dan Williams. “We’ve also had people that are heading out tomorrow in transportation, logistics and reunification and other things. But, right now, the immediate need has been sheltering that we’ve been asked to fulfill.”

While securing shelter for those impacted is main focus right now, Red Cross Volunteers will be fulfilling a number of crucial roles.

“We have volunteers that work in lots of different things from it to logistics to, procurement. But in that first few days after a big disaster like this happens, the biggest need in that initial wave of volunteers that are brought in from outside is to help with sheltering,” said Williams. “So emotional support for residents, giving people a safe place to to be, to take a break, to rest, and to find out information. So what’s next? When can I go back to my neighborhood? It’s a really important part of disaster response.”

The Red Cross is accepting donations to help fund recovery efforts in California. You can donate at redcross.org.