(Casper, Wyo.) – The Red Cross of Wyoming has been assisting people since Sunday afternoon when hundreds of Natrona County residents were evacuated from the Cole Creek area.
Executive Director of the American Red Cross of Wyoming Spencer Pollock said that on Sunday Disaster Relief operations were put in place.
The American Red Cross of Wyoming has aided more than 45+ families with lodging, clothing, pet food, medications, and other needs. With coordination with Joshua’s Storehouse and other groups, the American Red Cross continues to help those affected by the Cole Creek Fire.
“We are set up to help those affected and provide relief and answers. We are the first step towards recovery and here to help those in need,” said Pollock.
He continued: “We are also in the process of preparing for when the evacuation order is lifted. We have volunteer groups such as the Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (VOAD) and Team Rubicon ready to step in to assist with the cleanup.”
Red Cross of Wyoming is currently asking for donations of rakes, shovels, leather gloves, and people wishing to donate other items should call the office first. Red Cross anticipates taking the equipment to those in need along Cole Creek once it is safe to enter the area.
“Once the evacuation orders have been lifted, I think you will see a quick response of people providing assistance to home owners,” said Cindy Shank, Red Cross of Wyoming Disaster Program Manager. “That is what we are organizing while helping those who have been effected by the fire.”
Volunteers from all over Wyoming have joined in at the Casper Red Cross to offer assistance, and one family that aided in the Lusk flood in June has come to Casper to help out.
Another Disaster Program director for Southern Wyoming reported that he came to Casper on Monday to assist with relief efforts, and has witnessed a steady stream of people coming to the center for assistance. He reported that he has seen 30 to 40 people come through the doors. Some of the families have had a positive attitude and tried to laugh off the tragedy, while others came in in tears, after losing everything.
Pollock also reported that on Wednesday, October 14th from noon until 5:00 pm a representative from the Wyoming Insurance Department will be at the office to assist with questions regarding insurance.
Persons needing assistance should come to the local Casper Red Cross office at 318 W. B Street or they can call (307)-237-8436 for more information.