Reno Red Cross volunteer goes to Oklahoma for disaster help

RENO, Nev. (KOLO) -A Reno woman headed to Oklahoma Thursday as part of an American Red Cross team helping with the disaster there.

Jocelyn Seemann, a disaster services program manager, was joined by fellow American Red Cross Utah/Nevada chapter member Jim Erickson of Salt Lake City.

Seemann has deployed to six disasters with the Red Cross. Erickson has deployed four previous times for the Red Cross and deployed to 18 hurricanes when he was in the U.S. Coast Guard.

“Our Utah/Nevada Red Cross staffers will join other Red Cross relief workers who are coordinating closely with community and government partners to ensure people have the help they need,” Heidi Ruster, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region, said in a statement. “Our Utah/Nevada team has shown unwavering dedication and I am incredibly proud of their commitment.”

The Red Cross is helping across six states in the south and the Midwest after 130 tornadoes touched down.

The Red Cross said its disaster workers are conducting disaster assessments, offering safe shelter, meals, healthcare services, emotional support and distributing relief supplies across Oklahoma, Kansas, Nebraska and Iowa. In regions of Texas and Louisiana where heavy rains have caused rivers to overflow, Red Cross disaster relief teams are responding, with additional workers and relief supplies ready for deployment if needed.

“I see the tangible impact our staff and volunteers have on communities recovering from disasters,” Seemann said. “Being there for people during their darkest moments, offering comfort and hope, is a privilege that highlights the enduring humanity driving our mission. I am honored to stand in solidarity with those we serve, providing unwavering support for our impactful work.”

To donate to the Red Cross, go to redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

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