Mission

The American Red Cross prevents and alleviates human suffering in the face of emergencies by mobilizing the power of volunteers and the generosity of donors.

The Big Idea

The American Red Cross of the Central Coast Chapter provides relief to disaster survivors, helping people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies. Notable recent responses include the Pfeiffer, Soberanes, Dolan, River, Carmel, and CZU Fires, coastal flooding, and debris flow incidents. Last year, over 462 local volunteers responded to over 88 home fires, assisting 353 individuals in Monterey County, helping families with more permanent housing situations, displaced children replace damaged items and access psychological services. Through our preparedness efforts, we work alongside local partners/fire departments to identify and understand unique community needs to ensure everyone can engage, be prepared, increase resiliency, and recover long-term. Red Cross disaster relief services are a crucial safety-net for families in Monterey, we ensure our community are prepared for another potential dry summer and high wildfire risk and smaller disasters locally.

“Even though this particular disaster impacted me, I felt like I could also help others while I waited for word about my own home...the Staff Services team, was very busy making and verifying assignments for the many Red Crossers who were already helping as part of this large wildfire response. During a disaster like these wildfires, evacuees can feel so helpless. So, as someone who unfortunately experienced that during this disaster, I knew how they felt. Supporting others right now (through the Red Cross) has been therapeutic, helping me process my own challenges."

- Linnea Dunn