CEO Mike Parks Credits Residents for Resiliency

More rain is in the forecast for West Virginia on the 4th of July, as residents there recover from historic flooding that hit the state in late June. The National Weather Service has posted a flash flood watch  through late Monday night for parts of West Virginia and eastern Ohio.

Mike Parks, Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Northeast Ohio Region, is one of hundreds of Red Cross workers and volunteers who deployed to West Virginia, in response to the needs of the residents affected by the flooding.

Mike Parks, CEO, American Red Cross Northeast Ohio Region

“The response of the residents of this great state to the devastation caused by the flooding is heartwarming,” Mike said.  “So many of them have so little, but so many of them give so much to so many.  Their generosity to each other, despite their own hardships is not only heartwarming, but also inspiring.”

Red Cross workers have been providing shelter, food, water, cleaning supplies and comfort kits to residents affected by the disaster, and will continue to help them as they plan to move forward with their lives.

Photo Credit: Mary Williams, American Red Cross

“The residents affected by the flooding have hope, hope that they can recover, and that gives them true independence, as we celebrate our nation’s freedom,” Mike added.

You can help the people of West Virginia, by donating to Red Cross Disaster Relief.  Your donation will help people who suffer from disasters big and small.  Go to redcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS to donate.  Or text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.