From snow, to rain and floods, to more snow, Sparks has seen it all in recent weeks from Mother Nature, and that has kept the Red Cross busy.
After Washoe County was declared in a state of emergency earlier this month, the Red Cross provided 289 overnight shelter stays, served 4220 meals and 19,405 snacks, distributed over 26,000 bottles of water, and given out 41 clean up kits and 189 comfort kits.
As one of Red Cross’s community partners, the Nugget Casino Resort donated water, food, and hotel room stays. Since all Red Cross assistance is free, corporate sponsors are essential in allowing them to respond to disasters in the community while still being effective with the services it provides.
“When people donate to the Red Cross, we want them to know that their gift is being used efficiently and responsibly,” says American Red Cross Public Information Officer Frank Rutkowski.
Along with the Nugget, Red Cross has identified the Washoe County School District for potential shelter sites. Sparks High School was one of the sites used in the first round of storms to help people affected by the weather.
For the second round of storms that came through this past weekend, Red Cross placed Disaster Response Teams of people who are trained in operating an emergency relief shelter on standby as well as kept shelter trailers in place to deploy as needed. Washoe County also sent out some information on how residents should prepare for the next weather system coming through. Although there was not been any imminent danger of flooding, residents who live near ditches, tributaries, creeks or other water were still on alert.
“There are two ways two make a difference in our community. Help can’t wait when people are suffering and need support. Financial donations of individuals, community and corporate partners ensure that the Red Cross will continue to serve this community in times of disaster or emergency. We welcome volunteers to deliver the services that help our community on the road to recovery and resilience. Contact (775) 856-1000 to donate or volunteer,” says Rutkowski.
Although the storm has passed, here are some resources from Washoe County regarding snow plow service, power outage maps, road closures, and more in case another freak weather system pops up: https://www.washoecounty.us/outreach/2017/01/2017-1-20–storm-info.php.
Leave a Reply