
STEPHANIE MURPHY
Corporate communications and public relations professional
HURRICANE FLORENCE DEPLOYMENT
In September 2018, I sent two weeks in North Carolina assisting the American Red Cross with with Hurricane Florence response.
Hope in the face of Hurricane Florence
In the aftermath of Hurricane Florence, American Red Cross disaster assessment teams are vising communities across the Carolinas to see the degree of impact. Some areas escaped unscathed, others lost branches and entire trees, and still others are waiting to find out if their homes can be salvaged. The impact is immense, and the recovery process will be long. But still, in the midst of the destruction, you can find hope.
Behind the scenes: One Canadian Red Cross volunteer’s experience in North Carolina
On disaster responses, there are many different jobs that make the operation possible. In addition to volunteers and staff working face-to-face with those affected, there are also numerous behind-the-scenes responders who help keep the operation running smoothly.
Hurricane Florence: A Vietnam Veteran shares his story
On September 13, Larry was faced with an evacuation order as Hurricane Florence approached. He packed up his belongings in a suitcase and left behind his home of eight years in Jacksonville, NC. Larry made it as far as Winston-Salem before all buses and trains were stopped. That’s where he found himself at the Red Cross-operated shelter in town.
One Evacuee Goes Home
There’s nothing easy about having to evacuate your home due to a natural disaster. Choosing what to pack and what to leave behind, and not knowing if or when you’ll be able to return home can make it a traumatic experience. It’s an experience made worse if your car breaks down on the way.