In this episode of Carolina Newsmakers, Don Curtis speaks with Heather Frazee, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Piedmont Triad Chapter, about the Red Cross’s ongoing disaster relief work in North Carolina. Frazee sheds light on the organization’s efforts in helping those affected by the recent floods in the western part of the state, the role of volunteers, and the importance of maintaining blood supplies during crises.
Red Cross Disaster Relief in Western North Carolina
Heather Frazee and her team have been working tirelessly in western North Carolina, where recent flooding has devastated communities. Frazee highlights how the Red Cross immediately deployed volunteers and resources to assist those displaced or affected by the severe weather. Over 150 volunteers from North Carolina were deployed to the area, and more than 600 volunteers from across the country came to support the recovery efforts.
According to Frazee, the immediate priorities of the Red Cross have been providing shelter, food, water, and basic necessities to those impacted by the floods. The mountainous terrain has made accessing some communities a significant challenge, but thanks to partnerships with local agencies, emergency managers, and even the National Guard, the Red Cross has been able to navigate the difficult conditions and reach those in need.
Financial Donations: The Best Way to Help
When asked what the public can do to support the Red Cross’s efforts, Frazee emphasized that financial donations are the quickest and most effective way to help. These contributions allow the organization to allocate resources directly to the areas that need them most. She shared that donations could be made through the Red Cross website or by calling their hotline, and that even small contributions can have a significant impact on those recovering from disasters.
The Importance of Volunteers
Frazee also discussed the critical role of volunteers in the Red Cross’s operations. With over 5,000 volunteers serving the state of North Carolina alone, the organization relies heavily on their dedication. These volunteers respond to a wide range of emergencies, including not only large-scale disasters but also home fires and local crises that don’t make the news. Frazee shared stories of volunteers who are on-call day and night, ready to assist families when they need it most.
Beyond their work on the ground, volunteers also play a key role in disaster preparedness. Frazee mentioned that the Red Cross provides resources and education to help families create emergency plans, ensuring they are ready in case of a disaster.
Blood Donations: A Constant Need
One of the most pressing issues during the recent crisis has been the disruption to blood donations. As Frazee explained, the Red Cross provides 40% of the nation’s blood supply, and natural disasters often result in the cancellation of blood drives, leading to shortages. She shared that during the current response, around 1,500 units of blood were lost due to cancellations. This shortage is critical because, according to Frazee, it takes approximately three weeks to make up for the loss of one day of donations.
Frazee urged listeners to consider donating blood, emphasizing that it’s one of the most impactful ways to help, especially as the organization works to recover from the recent disruptions. With blood drives canceled in hard-hit areas like Asheville, the Red Cross is seeking new locations and donors to help replenish the supply.
Ongoing Red Cross Services and Community Support
Frazee reminded listeners that while disaster relief is one of the Red Cross’s most visible services, the organization also offers a variety of ongoing programs, including first aid and CPR training, babysitter certification, and lifeguard courses. These programs are designed to help communities prepare for emergencies and ensure individuals have the skills to respond when needed.
She highlighted the Red Cross’s commitment to the military community, particularly through its Service to the Armed Forces program, which helps manage emergency communications between deployed service members and their families.
Frazee expressed gratitude for the strong community support in North Carolina, especially in the western counties hit hardest by the floods. She emphasized that recovery efforts will take time and that the Red Cross will remain on the ground for as long as necessary, continuing to provide shelter, food, and emotional support to affected families.
Looking Ahead: Long-Term Recovery
As the conversation turned to the future, Frazee acknowledged that the recovery from the recent floods will be a long-term process. She stressed the importance of keeping the affected communities in mind, even as media coverage fades and other issues come to the forefront. The Red Cross will continue to collaborate with local agencies, churches, and community groups to ensure that those impacted have the resources they need to rebuild their lives.
Frazee concluded by encouraging North Carolinians to stay engaged with the Red Cross’s efforts, whether by donating blood, making financial contributions, or volunteering their time. She reminded listeners that even after the initial crisis subsides, the need for support will continue as families work to rebuild their homes and lives.
