Vegas Red Cross Volunteers Rush to Help Flooded Hawaii

Several American Red Cross volunteers from Southern Nevada are boarding planes to Honolulu this week, carrying relief supplies and big hearts for communities reeling from catastrophic floods.

The flooding that struck Hawaii over the weekend was unlike anything the islands have seen in two decades. Homes were swept off their foundations, cars floated away like toys, and thick red volcanic mud coated everything it touched.

Yet amid the destruction, something beautiful is happening. More than 100 Red Cross disaster workers have mobilized to help, opening 18 emergency shelters across affected areas.

The shelters are providing far more than just a roof. Evacuees are getting hot meals, warm beds, and trained volunteers offering emotional support during one of the toughest moments of their lives.

Crews are still assessing the full damage, but early reports show hundreds of homes destroyed, along with schools and a hospital. More than 230 people needed rescue, though remarkably, no deaths have been reported.

The winter storms, known locally as Kona lows, forced thousands from their homes. Rain continued falling on parts of the Big Island even as relief efforts ramped up.

The Ripple Effect

The Las Vegas volunteers joining the effort represent something larger than a single disaster response. They're part of a network that activates whenever and wherever Americans need help, whether it's across town or across an ocean.

"The storms and flooding have left a profound impact on the people of Hawaii, displacing families and destroying neighborhoods," said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. "Our teams are committed to helping those affected recover by providing care and resources to help them move forward."

That commitment isn't just words. The Red Cross has pledged to stay in Hawaii for weeks and months ahead, supporting families through the long road of rebuilding their lives.

Additional shelter locations are being evaluated as needs change. Relief supplies continue arriving as the response evolves.

Anyone wanting to support the relief efforts can donate to Red Cross Disaster Relief online, by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS, or by texting REDCROSS.

Hawaii is rebuilding, one volunteer and one act of kindness at a time.