American Red Cross asking for volunteers

"The goal is to recruit, and make sure that Maconites and Middle Georgians are prepared in the event that a disaster would occur."

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — There seems to be more frequent and intense natural disasters today than ever before. That’s why the American Red Cross in Macon  says there is a need for more volunteers in Middle Georgia.

Community Disaster Program Manager for the American Red Cross in Macon, Virgil Watkins Jr., says the organization trains to provide help, shelter, food, and support for the community during times of a disaster.    

“The goal is to recruit, and make sure that Maconites and Middle Georgians are prepared in the event that a disaster would occur,” he explained. “That we be able to manage staff our own shelter, until help shows up”. 

Watkins shares how the training process works. 

“The first part of the day is an overview of the Red Cross; our mission. The second part is an intake process for sheltering, and physical training of setting up cots, stations, and a day-to-day process of setting up during a disaster”, said Watkins.

Jeffersonville First Baptist church member, Gloria Lewis, says she and other members noticed lack of resources in their area and wanted to help.  

“We were talking about starting a shelter at the church because we live right in the middle of Georgia, and everybody from Savannah comes our way”, she said. “So there should be a stop point. We don’t have anything available in Twiggs county, so we were interested in doing that”.

Lewis emphasizes that when disasters happen, people need a helping hand.  

“I know that people need help. And when there’s a disaster you’re just out of resources, so you need as much help as you can. And we would like to be that bright light for those people that need it”, said Lewis.

If you or someone you know is passionate about making a difference and helping others, visit redcross.org/shelterheroesga to sign up to become a Red Cross volunteer.