The American Red Cross Serving Central and Southern Illinois is deploying five Emergency Response Vehicles (ERVs) and driving teams to North Carolina to assist with preparations for Hurricane Joaquin.

Whether the hurricane makes landfall or not, heavy rains and flooding are expected from South Carolina to Maine. Emergency Response Vehicles and driving teams are deploying from Bloomington, Moline, Peoria, Quincy and Springfield. Volunteer drivers include Carl and Pat Tortorige from Quincy. ERVs are used to pre-position supplies such as cots, food, bottled water, comfort kits and cleaning supplies prior to a storm and to distribute food and relief items following a disaster.

In addition to the hurricane preparations on the east coast, the Red Cross is currently assisting with 14 active disasters across the U.S. and around the world including the devastating wildfires in California and typhoon recovery efforts in Saipan.

People all across the affected areas need help and your financial assistance. Donations to Red Cross Disaster Relief allow the Red Cross to respond immediately and provide help such as food, shelter, mental health services and recovery support. To make a donation, visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

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