VISION: OUR PASSION

As a result of its performance, American Red Cross Disaster Services will be the recognized leader in helping more people better anticipate, survive and recover from disasters. Everyone touched by Disaster Services will believe we are fulfilling our mission and will find the association rewarding.

MISSION: OUR CAUSE

American Red Cross Disaster Services reduces human suffering by helping
people prevent, prepare for, and recover from natural and other disasters.


How Red Cross Prepares:
What We Do Before a Disaster

Responding to Disasters:
What We Do During a Disaster

Since it is not a matter of if, but a matter of when a disaster will happen, the American Red Cross is constantly working to prepare for them. Before disasters happen, some of the things we do to get ready for them are:

  • Work with local government and organizations in developing disaster plans so that we can identify and coordinate resources.

  • Partner with community organizations and businesses to identify facilities for possible shelters, service centers, warehouses, and relief operation headquarters.

  • Work with local businesses to accept our disbursing orders that we issue to clients for things such as groceries, clothing, furniture, and housing.

  • Educate the public about disaster preparedness and what they can do to get ready for the next one.

Most of our disasters are handled by our Disaster Action and Mass Care Response Teams. These are teams of volunteers that are on-call 24 hours/day to initiate the response to any kind of disaster. Some of the activities they may be involved in include:

  • Conducting a damage assessment to document what has happened. We use this to help identify those in need of assistance and provide information to local emergency management officials.

  • Opening a shelter when many people are displaced from their homes. We provide meals and a place to sleep here.

  • American Red Cross Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV)Provide meals to disaster victims and emergency workers. We have special vehicles that can prepare and deliver meals.

  • Interview disaster victims and provide individual and family assistance. The assistance help with disaster caused needs and helps with things such as groceries, clothes, housing, and medical needs.

  • Nurses are part of our Disaster Action Teams and help clients with health related matters such as prescription medicines, medical supplies, and emergency medical treatment.

  • Licensed Mental Health professionals are also a part of our Disaster Action Teams and are available to support both disaster victims and Red Cross disaster workers.

  • Provide information to family members to reconnect them after a disaster.