Local Red Cross helping Kentucky flood victims

FINDLAY — Todd James, the American Red Cross of North Central Ohio's executive director, is joining in on the ongoing disaster relief operation in Kentucky. More than a week ago, flooding ripped through Kentucky, and the Red Cross has been working with partners to provide shelter, meals and critical support to help those in need. James will serve as the public affairs manager, overseeing efforts to communicate vital information on services available to families and communities. The deadly flooding in Kentucky — along with wildfires in California and recent heat waves — are clear examples of how more intense climate-related disasters are happening more often and are leaving behind devastation, according to an organizational statement. Preliminary damage assessments in Kentucky indicate more than 900 homes were either destroyed or suffered major damage in the flooding. At least 37 people have died thus far. Right now, more than 380 trained Red Cross disaster workers are on the ground in Kentucky helping to provide a safe place to stay, food to eat and emotional support for those affected. Volunteers are also helping to replace prescription medications, eyeglasses or critical medical equipment, like canes and wheelchairs, that were left behind in the rush to safety. How you can help People can provide assistance to those affected by disasters like floods, fires and countless other crises by making a gift to Red Cross Disaster Relief. Donations enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. For those interested in helping people specifically affected by the recent floods, the Red Cross asks that they write "Kentucky floods" in the memo line of a check and mail it to their local Red Cross chapter with a completed donation form to the address on the form or to their local Red Cross chapter. Find the donation form at redcross.org/donate.