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Portland joined other cities across the nation in the rising challenge of feeding, sheltering and providing emotional support to millions of people forced out of their flooded homes.
Efforts in Portland and across the state included:
- Almost 500 local Red Cross volunteers helping 965 individuals affected by Hurricane Katrina
- Nearly 15,000 meals were served at the Washington-Monroe Resource Center in SE Portland
- 1500 new Oregon Trail Chapter volunteers were trained to serve on disaster relief operations
- $14.5 million was raised locally for hurricane relief
- Over 300 Oregon Trail volunteers were deployed to the Gulf states
Also, Oregon Trail Chapter volunteers continue to help, serving on the following national disaster relief operations right now:
- Five are deployed to Anchorage to help Alaskan flood victims
- Two are deployed to El Paso to help Texans affected by flooding
- Four have recently returned from Red Cross disaster assignments for Tropical Storm Chris and flooding in Ohio
And there is still more than Oregonians can do in honor of those directly impacted by Katrina:
- Be your own first responder when emergencies happen. Take five simple steps to sustain your family before, during, and after a disaster.
The Northwest is free from hurricane risk, but earthquakes, winter storms, fires and other unexpected events come quickly with little or no warning.
- Make a plan
Create and practice an evacuation plan, and plan ahead for the possibility of becoming separated from your family and friends by choosing an out-of-town contact that each family or household member can call or email.
- Build a kit
Prepare to be without water and utilities for 72 hours or more. Stock a disaster supplies kit with water, non-perishable food, radio, flashlight and extra batteries for both, a first aid kit, and necessary medications. Store important family documents (wills, passports, insurance policies, deeds, etc.) as part of your kit. Plan for pets and family members with specific needs.
- Get trained
At least one family member should be trained in CPR and first aid. Visit redcross-pdx.org or call 503-284-1234 to enroll. Proceeds from Red Cross safety classes support emergency relief for Oregonians.
- Give blood
The need for blood is constant. Call 1-800-GIVE LIFE and become a regular blood donor.
- Volunteer
Contact the Oregon Trail Chapter or get involved with another local non profit organization that focuses on preparedness, especially for at-risk members of the community.
The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization, led by volunteers, that provide relief to victims of disaster and helps people prevent, prepare for and to respond to emergencies. All Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from Oregonians. Financial gifts help provide shelter, food, clothing, counseling and other immediate assistance to those in need. Call (503)284-1234 or visit www.redcross-pdx.org |
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