Two local volunteers from the Warren County chapter of the American Red Cross have traveled to Florida to assist in the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.

Marcy Huey and Victor Amsdell, both Red Cross volunteers, shared their experiences in a recent interview.

Marcy provided mental health support to families affected by the storms, while Victor worked in shelters, ensuring that displaced individuals received essential resources.

“This is my third deployment with the Red Cross," Amsdell shared. "I’ve only been volunteering for about a year and a half, but this one was probably the most intense. To see the sheer size of the devastation and number of people affected was eye opening. It's one thing to see it on the news, but in person it's different."

Huey also noted the emotional toll of the situation. “Some people, it seemed that they were a little reluctant to talk. "But when they realized that we were there to listen and help, they would tell us their story,” she stated.

Marcy and Victor are part of a group of 14 volunteers from the Northwestern PA Chapter currently deployed to the Southeast. A Red Cross Emergency Response Vehicle from the chapter has also been sent to aid in meal deliveries and supply distribution.

Across the region, more than 2,000 Red Cross responders are on the ground helping in Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, and Tennessee. 
As of October 15th, more than 2,000 people remain in shelters across the affected areas.

Huey emphasized the ongoing need for support. “We need more volunteers. There are other opportunities instead of deploying, even in mental health—you can do it virtually. So those of you that have certifications, I encourage you to do that. Just reach out to the Red Cross and volunteer.”

Victor agreed stating, "There still is a great need for help. The Red Cross and other organizations are doing a wonderful job assisting people in need, but the organizations need support too."

Both Marcy and Victor encourage anyone who can to get involved through donations or volunteering, as recovery efforts are far from over.

For more information on how to help, visit the Red Cross website or contact your local chapter.