Red Cross planning to stay on in Wells

0 Comments | Deseret News (Salt Lake City), Feb 24, 2008

WELLS, Nev. -- Local Red Cross volunteers have been working tirelessly to provide relief for residents after Wednesday's earthquake. More than 200 people have been affected by the quake and are unable to stay in their homes.

The Red Cross opened a shelter at Wells Elementary school to meet people's emergency needs of food, clothing, shelter and basic first aid.

The shelter will remain open until all those who need housing can return to their homes or can arrange for other suitable accommodations.

"Volunteers have been out in the affected areas since it was safe to do so, meeting the basic needs of the earthquake victims," said Red Cross Relief Operation director Megan Chamberlain. Nearly 40 Red Cross volunteers, many from Utah, are on the scene helping those affected by the disaster. "Several Red Cross workers were out in the neighborhoods Friday to assess the damage, deliver food and water. A licensed Red Cross nurse was with one group to provide health services to those who needed it," Chamberlain said.

Saturday, a team of mental health professionals trained by the Red Cross will be on hand to assist victims. The mental health workers can provide emotional support to those affected by this disaster. They will work with local community service professionals to help victims cope with the emotional strain. Other Red Cross workers work today distributing supplies like gloves, shovels, garbage bags and tarps to help residents begin the cleanup process.

In the coming days and weeks of recovery, the Red Cross will provide one-on-one casework assistance to individuals and families affected by the earthquake. Trained workers will help disaster victims as they begin the long process of rebuilding their lives by identifying emergency needs and locating resources to help meet those needs.