Red Cross Sends Middletown Woman to Colorado for Disaster Aid

A Middletown resident and volunteer at the American Red Cross Connecticut Chapter is on her way to Colorado to support disaster relief efforts after flooding that has displaced thousands of people in the state.

Stephanie Johnson of Middletown is deploying as a Client Health Services Supervisor and will support health assessment and referral services for people affected by the disaster.

“Stephanie is a seasoned volunteer,” said Red Cross spokesperson Paul Shipman. “She has been helping to identify and address potential health issues in disaster situations both locally and in major incidents across the country. We are fortunate to have her help.”

Johnson follows Red Cross staff person Alison Gain, of New Hartford, who deployed earlier this week to help support staff recruitment in Colorado.

“Alison has tremendous experience in the management and assignment of staff to large disaster operations,” Shipman said. “Her skills will help us to quickly recruit and deploy the right people in this relief operation.”

The Red Cross is providing shelter, food, relief supplies and comfort to thousands of people forced from their homes by flash flooding. As many as 500 people stayed in 14 shelters Monday night in Colorado. More than 400 trained disaster workers are staffing shelters and evacuation centers. 

The Red Cross has mobilized more than 20 response vehicles and six truckloads of relief supplies. In the days to come, the Red Cross will be supporting Disaster Assistance Centers by offering relief supplies and other recovery support. As flooded areas begin to re-open, the Red Cross will be there to assess the damage, distribute clean up supplies and support a recovery effort that could take months.