The devastating landslide in Oso yesterday claimed several lives, destroyed dozens of homes, and left some trapped in the mud and debris overnight. Our thoughts and prayers go out to those affected by the slide, their friends and loved ones, and the first responders who are helping in the immediate response.
What you can do
We are working with the Red Cross to get the word out about the two most important things people can do at this time:
- Encourage survivors to register with, and friends and family to search for loved ones using www.safeandwell.org
- Make a financial contribution to the Red Cross www.redcross.org/wa/everett
As is appropriate after a natural disaster like this, the Red Cross is taking the lead in providing shelter and support to both the survivors and the rescue crews. People remain missing and loved ones are trying to get in touch with friends and family who lived in the area.
There has also been an enormous outpouring of support with many people dropping off blankets and clothing to Cascade Valley Hospital and to the Red Cross shelters.
Chuck Morrison, of the Red Cross, shared that they do not have the resources to sort through all of these donations. He wrote in part,“Please, please, please try to discourage people from clothing, blanket, etc. donations. Social media was wild with this request, and we NEVER asked for it (the request came earlier from the hospital in Arlington). We now have mountains of it, and management of it is delaying service to evacuees.”
That is why a financial contribution is the best way for people to help.
Here is the link to the Red Cross Quick Donation page.
March 23, 2014
Everett, Everett Fire