As the devastating effects of Hurricane Harvey continue across parts of east Texas and Louisiana, the Red Cross is on the ground to offer shelter, food and hope to those affected by the storm.

16 Northeast Ohio volunteers have headed into the fray, with many more still to be deployed. Three NEO emergency response vehicles are among the 200 already in the affected area or en route. More than half of the Red Cross fleet of emergency vehicles are mobilized to respond, providing hot meals and cleaning supplies to neighborhoods once the flooding recedes.

The generosity of Northeast Ohioans is extremely heart warming. Many people have contributed to the financial needs of those affected, though no tally is yet available. A financial donation allows a family the opportunity to purchase the things they need and want to aid in their recovery. Working with partner organizations and retailers, the purchasing power of the Red Cross allows us provide water, snacks and everyday items like diapers, to shelter residents at a cost much lower than what consumers can get from a local store.

If you would like to help those affected by Hurricane Harvey you can log on to redcross.org/neo and click on donate, call 1-800-REDCROSS or text HARVEY to 90999 to make a $10 donation.