By Duhane Lindo, American Red Cross of Central Florida and the U.S. Virgin Islands Public Affairs
Natural disasters affect all elements of life; however, with continuously growing health services we can create balance and instill a sense of hope to those affected by Hurricane Debby.
Karen Nielsen is a Disaster Mental Health volunteer from the American Red Cross Colorado and Wyoming region who has been assisting others since June of 2023. “We do some crisis intervention, and most importantly, we do referral resources so they can get to the people and the agencies that can help them the most.”
Nielsen describes her overall experiences with the Red Cross as a fulfilling and life-changing privilege to be able to assist others in need. While the current focus is on addressing the immediate needs of those affected, the Red Cross also plays a critical role in helping families and communities recover in the weeks and months after a disaster.
In August of 2023, Karen recalls her first deployment to the wildfires of Hawaii being a life changing experience. She wanted to be a part of starting to heal the community. Fast forward to the situation in Sarasota, Florida where she provides aid for those affected by mass flooding caused by Debby’s heavy rain. Nielsen reflects on her interactions throughout her deployment where she worked with “Very receptive, really wonderful, resilient people”.
Nielsen further expresses her commitment to the community saying, “We’re all connected with each other, and we all need to reach out to each other when something difficult happens.”
While the current focus is on addressing the immediate needs of those affected, the Red Cross also plays a critical role in helping families and communities recover in the weeks and months after a disaster. The Red Cross remains in contact with local officials across the impacted areas to evaluate the needs of the residents. Anyone affected by the storms can receive assistance by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
People urgently need aid now. You can help by way of volunteering or making a financial donation. Visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767).
