Disaster services

Every year, the Red Cross responds to more than 70,000 disasters nationwide—that’s nearly 200 times a day. The vast majority of these disasters are single family and apartment home fires. Our chapter alone assisted 843 people here in our community in the last year.

Most people know the Red Cross for our response to the larger disasters—the hurricanes, floods and wildfires that grab the headlines—but we must be ready for every disaster, regardless of its size or the media attention it attracts. We put systems and plans into place to deal with disasters before they happen by partnering with local, state and federal governments; community organizations; and individuals and corporate supporters to provide emergency shelter, food, health and mental health services and resources and referrals to aid in recovery. 

This disaster assistance is free, 24 hours each day, 365 days a year, made possible by the contributions of people living here in our community. Gifts to the Disaster Relief Fund make it possible for us to shelter, feed, clothe and counsel victims of disasters, from single family house fires to catastrophic natural disasters affecting thousands of people. The Disaster Relief Fund gives hope to many people who may have nothing else left. 

If you have experienced a disaster and need assistance, please call us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at (616) 899-4511.

For more information, please contact:

Chip Kragt

Associate Director of Readiness and Response

(616) 456-8661 ext. 3301