Two hits in less than two weeks could put a strain on disaster relief organizations. The local Red Cross is preparing for the worst. Dozens of AmeriCorp volunteers from Washington State spent the weekend helping the American Red Cross prepare for hurricane Ike.
Volunteers are disinfecting and bagging more than 10,000 cots used by Gustav evacuees at area shelters. Michelle Davison with the Red Cross says during Gustav about 2,000 people came out to volunteer but with the possibility of another hurricane on the horizon services could be stretched thin. Davison says if Ike pushes evacuees to this area they will have plenty of cots and food. The Red Cross has contracts with several caters who can handle a large number of people.
Red Cross officials from the national headquarters were at the local red cross office Sunday. They were making sure they will have enough volunteers and supplies if hurricane Ike hits Louisiana. Food is not expected to be a problem for the Red Cross but consumable items will be. They are in need of toiletries, water, snacks, baby formula, diapers and other items needed for day to day sheltering. Red cross is in need of donations and volunteers. If you can help call the Red Cross at 318-865-9545.
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