local disaster relief shelter hosts 60

The Lee County Red Cross opened a shelter on Saturday to house those citizens fleeing Category 2 Hurricane Gustav. The Covington Recreation Center located at 213 Carver Avenue in Opelika, open as a disaster relief shelter, is housing about 60 guests.

A news release states that trained volunteers are at the shelter with supplies to house and feed anyone seeking shelter from the storm and to offer emotional support. Evacuees in Lee County but not staying at the shelter can still come for meals. They will just need to show ID and register with the Red Cross so arrangements can be made for extra food. The shelter will remain open as long as evacuees need shelter from Hurricane Gustav.

“Nationally, the American Red Cross has mobilized more than 3,000 volunteers to assist with its Hurricane Gustav relief efforts and has sent 200 emergency response vehicles near the areas in the direct path of the storm. Bulk shipments of relief supplies were also pre-positioned nearby so that they can be rushed in when the Red Cross is cleared to go back in after the storm has passed.
"Those who live in affected areas who have evacuated and are safe can register themselves as “Safe & Well” at www.redcross.org. Those trying to locate loved ones can also go to the site to search for them.

“The Red Cross is set up to accept bulk supplies and is not equipped to receive individual donations of clothing, food or supplies. The best way to help the American Red Cross is with gifts of time, blood and money. The Lee County Red Cross office located at 206 26th Street in Opelika will be open Labor Day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and normal business hours of 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. starting Tuesday to sign up local volunteers and accept financial donations.

“Citizens who would like to volunteer with the local Red Cross relief efforts can also call the local chapter at 749-9981, or visit the website at www.leeredcross.org. Volunteers will be asked to fill out an application and complete a background check. Volunteers will meet with a volunteer coordinator who will discuss their skills and availability.

“Blood collections in regions affected by the hurricane could be suspended, so the local chapter of the American Red Cross need help with their efforts to continue to collect the blood needed to supply hospitals in the region. Upcoming blood drives are planned for the following locations:

Due to recent responses to wildfires, flooding, tornadoes, Hurricane Dolly and Tropical Storm Fay, the American Red Cross disaster relief fund is almost empty. Financial donations are desperately needed to help with all current disaster relief efforts. Donors can contact the local Red Cross chapter at 749-9981, or via the web at ww.leeredcross.org to make donations through the local chapter.