The American Red Cross of Wisconsin held a virtual media briefing to provide updates on its response to the California wildfires, Jan. 13, 2025. (Photo courtesy: American Red Cross)
(WTAQ-WLUK) — Red Cross of Wisconsin volunteers and employees are on the ground in southern California, doing their part to help those impacted by devastating wildfires.
Since the blazes began last Tuesday, at least 24 people have been killed, thousands of others displaced and more than 12,000 structures destroyed. Additionally, at least 23 people are missing — and authorities said that number is expected to rise.
On Monday, the American Red Cross of Wisconsin held a virtual media briefing to provide updates on its response to the tragedy.
“We’re coordinating closely with our partners to provide food, shelter and emotional support and other critical services,” said Rebecca Rockhill, executive director of the Northeast Wisconsin Chapter of the Red Cross. “Monday morning, nearly 900 evacuees woke up in Red Cross shelters, many of whom are struggling after losing everything.”
So far, eight people from Wisconsin — five volunteers and three employees — have been deployed to California to aid in relief efforts.
Audrey Erdmann is one of those workers. She serves as the regional disaster program manager for the Northeast Wisconsin Chapter of the Red Cross.
Erdmann is stationed at a Pasadena shelter, where upwards of 500 evacuees — as well as 11 dogs, six cats and a bird — are taking refuge. She said the ongoing nature of the tragedy, with no real end in sight, has been challenging for those affected.
“It’s incredibly difficult for these folks that are already grieving and already incredibly distraught to think that it’s not over yet,” Erdmann said.
Sometimes with our other disasters — a tornado happens, a weather event — that event happens and then folks are able to start working towards recovery. Unfortunately, that has not been the case in this situation.
During her deployment, Erdmann is acting in the community engagement realm of the relief efforts. She is working to connect shelter residents with local partners who can help serve their needs, whether it be dental services, health care, animal care, COVID-19 testing or just basic needs, like showers.
“Unfortunately, recovery is not something that’s going to happen in a couple days, but the Red Cross will help them through that process and put them in the right direction,” Erdmann said.
Rockhill said while donations of food, clothing and household items are appreciated, financial gifts are the best way to help victims of the California wildfires. Participating in a Red Cross blood drive is also a great way to support the cause.
If you’d like to make a monetary donation, click here. If you’d like to make an appointment to give blood, click here.
Comments