HOUSTON  — As the American Red Cross responds to flooding along the Texas coast, the need for volunteers with a variety of talents in the Beaumont and Orange areas grows. Opportunities in these areas range from working in a warehouse to interfacing with the community by handing out cleanup supplies. The volunteer need in Houston is slightly different, anyone who is willing to drive response vehicles during the day are urged to sign up. Training for all positions is provided onsite.

 “Volunteers are the backbone of the Red Cross mission because ninety percent of our workforce are volunteers.  Every person who gives of their time and talents is carrying out the mission and giving back to the community in which they live,” said Henry Van de Putte, Regional Chief Executive Officer for the Texas Gulf Coast region of the American Red Cross. “You have the opportunity to provide comfort to someone on possibly the worst day of their life.”

The safety of those we serve and the volunteers who help them is of utmost importance. Procedures are in place to track who is volunteering for the Red Cross in an effort to keep everyone safe. This includes running a background check on all volunteers who will work directly with the people who turn to us for help or have access to funds. Volunteers must also sign an agreement to abide by our code of ethics and conduct. The minimum age requirement to volunteer is 18. Sign up at redcross.org/volunteer to begin this process.

As the Red Cross continues to respond to flooding, you can help support immediate disaster relief needs by visiting redcross.org, calling 1- 800-RED CROSS or texting 90999 to make a $10 donation. Donations enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from this disaster.