Ms. Sherwin touched down on a gorgeous Alabama day, which made it that much more difficult to imagine the destruction she soon would encounter first hand. Once processed, she immediately reported to a shelter. Right off the bat she was astounded by the unwavering spirit of those who were affected.
Carolyn reflects: “One teenage girl at the shelter today, whose home was completely destroyed, was all smiles while getting her hair done by her mother for her prom. She said she felt like Cinderella. Locals donated tuxes and dresses to those who lost everything so that prom could still go on.”
Despite the cards that were dealt, Alabamians have been able to start emotionally recovering through this difficult period. Carolyn is amazed with the work that the ICT (Integrated Care Team) does and credits a large portion of the emotional recovery to them. The ICT is comprised of mental health volunteers, case workers, nurses and the area’s chaplaincy. Carolyn remarked that they are out there every day lending their expertise and care to make people feel human again.
Carolyn is currently working with the Public Affairs team that is traveling throughout Alabama, reporting back to headquarters, and working with local and national media to ensure that people can continue to follow Red Cross relief efforts.
“The days are long but you can leave headquarters with the feeling you know progress is there and recovery is happening. Volunteers are enthused and working in shelters and ERV’s (Emergency Response Vehicle) doing what we do best; providing shelter, an ear to confide in, a hand to hold, and a shoulder to cry on.”
Our thoughts and sympathies are with those who have lost loved ones or have suffered through this weekend’s deadly tornadoes in the Midwest. You can help those affected by the recent disasters by visiting www.redcross.org or texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.