Red Cross Continues to Support Iowans Recovering From Flooding

When devastating flooding swept through parts of central Iowa on July 3, American Red Cross volunteers were ready to respond. As recovery efforts continue, the Red Cross remains on the ground helping individuals and families navigate the challenges left behind by rising waters.

One of those families is Vivian Morgan and her 12-year-old grandson.

What was supposed to be a holiday weekend quickly changed when flooding forced them from their Des Moines apartment, leaving them with nowhere to go. Today, they are among the residents staying at the shelter at Hoyt Middle School.

“Nature takes us by surprise, but the Red Cross has been great,” Vivian said. “They’ve been very kind.”

Approximately 50 trained Red Cross personnel have been supporting disaster response operations across the affected region. The shelter at Hoyt Middle School remains open and is currently providing overnight accommodations for more than 50 individuals, including families with children. In addition to a safe place to stay, shelter residents have access to meals, health services, emotional support and other resources designed to help them through this difficult time.

Des Moines resident Vivian Morgan has found support at the shelter set up at Hoyt Middle School after being displaced from her home by flooding.

Red Cross volunteers put aside their own Fourth of July plans to focus on helping families affected by the flooding. Working closely with Polk County Emergency Management, Des Moines Public Schools and other community partners, the Red Cross is helping ensure that residents have the support they need as they begin the recovery process.

Across Polk, Jasper and Hamilton counties, Red Cross teams are conducting residential damage assessments to better understand the extent of the flooding and identify what assistance families may need in the days and weeks ahead. Volunteers have also distributed nearly 100 cleanup kits to help residents safely begin cleaning and restoring their homes.

“Everybody is safe and well. We have everything we need. Kids have been playing,” Vivian said. “I am so grateful.”

While immediate response efforts are critical, recovery continues long after floodwaters recede. The Red Cross remains committed to helping affected communities through every stage of that journey, providing relief, resources and hope as Iowans work to rebuild.

How You Can Help

Donations to Red Cross Disaster Relief help provide shelter, meals, emotional support and recovery assistance for people affected by disasters like the recent flooding in Iowa and countless other emergencies across the country. Financial contributions are the fastest and most effective way to help, allowing families to address their most urgent needs.

To support Red Cross disaster relief efforts, visit redcross.org, call 800-RED-CROSS (800-733-2767) or text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.