Red Cross Volunteers Help Georgetown Evacuees Find Comfort and Connection

Story by Kate Walters, Cindy Huge and Andrea Carlson

As a Red Cross volunteer, service is always focused on the people in need.  That’s what motivates volunteers, Carlos Ortiz of Florida and Bob Farr of Michigan. One of their many duties is to help evacuees find solace in a shelter in Georgetown, South Carolina, as the town awaits the crest of the rising waters and the potential for more floods.

Carlos Ortiz and Bob Farr discuss shelter plans for the day.

Flooding is still a concern for residents in Georgetown until the rivers begin to recede. Relationships with government partners and county Emergency Operation Centers as well as expert data allows the Red Cross to stay up to date with the latest weather concerns and water levels.

Each day, dozens of volunteers compare and analyze the latest models and numbers to determine where shelters are needed, how long they are opened and what the needs are for that community.

The Red Cross then relies on volunteers like Carlos and Bob to help make each shelter feel comfortable like home. From making sure evacuees have activities and games to keep them busy in the common areas, hot food in the cafeteria, even making sure each person has a space that is just for them.  

“They may be sleeping on cots, but the cots have been strategically placed in the most quiet

and private places possible,” says Carlos.

Ortiz and Farr unload comfort kits for clients.

Carlos prefers to hang out at the shelter during his off hours, too, so that he can build a stronger bond with its residents. He says, his favorite time is spent inside the shelter is when meals are shared. It has given him time to allow friendships to develop and people are most relaxed.

“Sometimes a client just needs to be heard. Being available is an essential part of being a volunteer,” he says.

These extraordinary men consider it their privilege to serve the people of Georgetown. The people, in turn, are grateful for their compassion and kindness.

The Red Cross will continue to be here for the residents in Georgetown, providing everything we can, as long as it is needed. From shelters, food, clean-up supplies and support.

All of this is possible, thanks to the amazing support from donors around the world. Please click, test or call to donate to the Red Cross to help people affected by disasters big and small. Visit Redcross.org, call 1-800-RED-CROSS or text the work REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.