'I didn’t lose just my house, I lost my community’

“I didn’t lose just my house, I lost my community.”Those were the words of Dale, a jazz musician whose life’s work—his home, his memories, his musical instruments, jazz manuscripts and an invaluable art collection—were reduced to ashes in the wildfires that tore through Los Angeles at the beginning of January.He and his wife are among the thousands who lost everything and who found safety at the Pasadena Convention Centre shelter, where the American Red Cross together with the city partners are providing support and comfort. Driving through the burn zone in Altadena, the devastation was staggering. The fire had been selective—some homes reduced to nothing but rubble and ash, while others stood seemingly untouched.But even the houses that remained standing were not spared. The toxic impact of smoke, heat damage, and chemical exposure made many of them unsafe for habitation. The randomness of destruction was difficult to understand, dictated by the shifting Santa Ana winds and the relentless dryness of the climate.It reminded me of the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Different disasters, but the same heart-wrenching reality: families displaced, lives upended, and an overwhelming need for help.Outpouring of solidarityYet amidst the destruction, there was also something else—an outpouring of solidarity and the unwavering presence of the American Red Cross staff and volunteers. Around 14,000 people volunteered from across the country, joining the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region to provide immediate relief.At the Red Cross service delivery site, I saw firsthand how humanitarian aid becomes the lifeline for communities in crisis. Volunteers handed out food, water, gloves, buckets, and provided information about cash vouchers—essential items that provided not just material support, but also a sense of stability in an otherwise chaotic moment.One phrase kept echoing through the service delivery site: “Thank you, Red Cross, for your kindness.” In times of distress, kindness is the most precious commodity. It is what defines the Red Cross and Red Crescent. People may not always think about the Red Cross in times of stability, but when disaster strikes, when their world is reduced to embers or swept away by floodwater, it is the Red Cross they turn to.As we look ahead, we must ask ourselves: Are we doing enough to prepare for and respond to the growing threat of wildfires, especially in urban areas?The changing climate has made wildfires more frequent, more intense, and more devastating. The response we saw in Los Angeles was a testament to the power of humanitarian action, but it also highlighted areas where we must strengthen our approach:Investing in community preparedness – We need more fire-resilient communities. This means expanding fire education programs, creating a family disaster plan, promoting defensible spaces around homes, and ensuring that vulnerable populations—especially the elderly, low-income families, and those with disabilities—have evacuation plans in place.Scaling-up disaster-response capacity – While the Red Cross and other organizations mobilized thousands of volunteers, the scale and speed of these wildfires demand an even stronger surge capacity. This requires more trained disaster responders, better coordination with local governments, and pre-positioned emergency supplies and kits in high-risk areas.Enhancing early warning systems – The difference between life and death in a wildfire can come down to minutes. Strengthening alert systems, improving evacuation routes, and ensuring that warnings reach all communities—especially non-English-speaking and marginalized groups—is critical.Supporting long-term recovery – Disaster response does not end when the flames are extinguished. Many wildfire survivors face months, even years, of rebuilding. Mental health, housing assistance, and financial support need to be sustained long after the immediate crisis disappears from the headlines.Addressing the climate crisis – Wildfires are no longer seasonal disasters; they are becoming year-round threats. Addressing the root causes means advocating for policies that mitigate climate change, investing in forest management strategies, and ensuring that humanitarian organizations are equipped to respond to climate-driven disasters.For Dale and the thousands like him who were affected by this crisis, the road ahead is uncertain. Rebuilding a house is one thing; rebuilding a community is another. But in the presence of Red Cross volunteers and staff, neighbours, and those who show up with open hearts, the foundations of that community are already being laid.The Red Cross will be there—before, during, and after every crisis, as we always do. But to truly protect communities, we must also strengthen the systems that prevent disasters from becoming catastrophes. Kindness will always be at the heart of our response, but preparedness and bold action must guide the way forward.

United States: Red Cross volunteers bring hope in wake of southern California wildfires

Originally from Colombia, Kennis Eduardo Díaz lost his home and all his possessions in the fires. With nowhere else to go, he found refuge at a newly-created, temporary shelter operated by the American Red Cross.The shelter in this case is a section of the Pasadena Convention Center. Normally a place for large business gatherings and trade shows, the center’s massive rooms have been transformed into a temporary shelter for hundreds of evacuees.Here, Kennis has received more than just meals and a safe place to sleep. He’s also found a path toward recovery thanks to the support of local Red Cross volunteers.“They’re giving me the help I didn’t have,” Kennis shared.One of those volunteers isGracie Castro, from the San Bernardinochapter of the American Red Cross and part of a team thathelps evacuees like Kennis with tackling administrative tasks,findingfinancial assistance, and getting referrals to services that help homeowners and renters find longer-term housing solutions, among other things.“My role is to see how we can get him where he wants to go,” said Gracie.Stories ofresilience andkindnessBlanca Pérez’s story is another testament to the power of community and compassion.Along with her husband Antonio, her daughter, and her daughter’s boyfriend, Blanca had toevacuate theirapartment inAltadena with their pets in tow, leaving behind their home and Blanca’s beloved dress shop.Days later, they learned boththeir home and the dress shophad been destroyed by the flames.Despite this profound loss, Blanca found solace in the support provided by the Red Cross. When she received news of her uncle’s passing due to the fires, a volunteer offered immediate emotional support,supportingher through her grief and connecting her with spiritual care services.“I’ve made new friends at the shelter, and the Red Cross volunteers have shown such kindness and genuine interest in our well-being,” Blanca shared. Small gestures, like receiving knitting supplies to keep her hands busy, have brought moments of peace amid the chaos.These are just two of the many stories unfolding at Red Cross shelters around the Los Angeles metropolitan area. In total, about 580 people are staying in Red Cross emergency shelters and each person has a unique set of needs. So far, the Red Cross has provided more than 11,300 overnight stays and more than 102,000 meals and snacks with the support of its partners.Volunteersfrom around the countryThe Red Cross’s response to the Southern California wildfires would not be possible withoutthe support ofvolunteers from around the country. Fernando Fernández, a disaster services volunteer from the Texas Gulf Coast Chapter, traveled to California to offer spiritual care to people who were forced to evacuate.A 15-year volunteer and U.S. Coast Guard veteran, Fernando understands the importance of being a comforting presence. “Most of the people I’ve helped just need someone to listen,” he said. Over 60 per cent of people he’s supported in this crisis have been Hispanic, he says, underscoring the vital role of culturally sensitive care in disaster response.Beyondshelter:there for the long runThe Red Cross’ssupport extends beyond immediate shelter. Financial assistance programs are now underway for residentsin numerous municipalities that have been severely impacted by the fires.This financial aid helps evacuees cover basic needs, from replacing hygiene products to purchasing appropriate clothing.All services are available to individuals regardless of nationality, race, gender, or citizenship status, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to inclusivity.“If you need help, don’t be afraid to ask the Red Cross,” urged Fernando,the volunteer from theTexas Gulf Coast Chapter,echoing a sentiment shared by many volunteers and survivors.As communities start rebuilding after the wildfires, the Red Cross remains steadfast in its mission to provide hope, safety, and resources to those in need. Indeed, those needs are immense and are likely not to diminish even as the fires are contained.Over 16,000 structures have been destroyed by the fires so people will be in need of temporary shelter for some time. Meanwhile, anticipated rains pose the prospectof new threats — flash flooding and landslides over the burn-scarred areas.Whatever the case, the Red Cross will remain by the side of people in need. Some 580 Red Cross responders are making sure people are not alone.As communities reopen, meanwhile, Red Crossers are also there with support including cleaning supplies, flashlights, face masks, gloves, water and other essentials. Almost 22,000 relief items were provided by end of January.

Kate Forbes: ‘I wasn't surprised, but I was still shocked’ — IFRC’s new president takes on today’s toughest humanitarian challenges

Inspired by her mother’s work helping migrant farm workers in the southwestern United States, Kate Forbes grew up understanding how hard people struggle for a better life. Starting as a Red Cross volunteer at her local branch, she now leads the world’s largest network of local humanitarian organizations. As newly elected president of the IFRC, she talks about extraordinary volunteers she’s met around the world who’ve risked everything to help others, and she explains her approach to today’s most complex humanitarian crises, from climate change to migration.

America’s Kate Forbes elected President of world’s largest humanitarian network

Geneva, 11 December 2023:American humanitarianand businesswoman, Kate Forbes, was elected the new President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) today. Kate Forbes's election as President of the IFRC is a historic moment, marking her as only the second woman to hold this position. This milestone underscores the IFRC's continued commitment to diversity and gender equality in its leadership. Upon her election,Forbes said,“Communities around the world are witnessingthe impacts of climate change, geopolitical tensionsand health emergencies. We know the challenges of our modern world demand addressing multiple issues at once. Now is the time to lean into our fundamental principles to deliver on our mission and make communities stronger.” Forbes's presidency marks a pivotal shift towards addressing the complexities of the modern world. A key area of focus under her leadership will be tackling the urgent issues of climate changeand migration. Local solutions and community empowerment are at the forefront of her agenda. Sheunderstands the critical role local actors play in humanitarian aid and is dedicated to working closely with local leaders to address their most pressing needs. Additionalpriorities include youth engagement and financial sustainability. She aims to leveragethe potential of young volunteers, acknowledging their crucial role in the organization. Strengthening relationships with governments and donors is a cornerstone of her vision for the Red Cross and Red Crescent. The role of IFRC President is a volunteer position, one that Forbes is well-prepared for, given her extensive background. She comes with over four decades of experience with the IFRC network, beginning her journey as a local volunteer at the Phoenix chapter of the American Red Cross. These roles include Vice-Chairman of the American Red Cross Board of Directors and National Chairpersonof Volunteers, where she managed over one million volunteers. An auditor by training, Forbes has been a member of the IFRC Board for the past 17 years. She most recently served asChairpersonof the IFRC Audit and Risk Commission. In this role, sheincreased transparency, implemented stronger financial controlsand establishedsafeguarding policies across the organization.Kate Forbes's election as President is a significant step forward for the IFRC, signaling a new leadership ready to focus on integrity and accountability. For more information or to request interviews with President Forbes, contact:[email protected] Tommaso Della Longa: +41 79 708 43 67 Mrinalini Santhanam: +41 76 381 50 06

Maui fires: Red Cross providing shelter and comfort to victims

The deadliest wildfires in Hawaii in the last 100 years have caused massive damage on Maui island, forcing thousands of people to flee their homes and claiming more than 100 lives. Since the fires began, Red Cross disaster workers have been caring for families around the clock, providing them with a safe place to stay, food to eat, and much more. In a statement on their website, the American Red Cross reports: "The Red Cross is coordinating closely with state and local emergency management teams to begin moving people from emergency shelters into hotels. Emergency shelters will become multi-purpose service centres where people can access hot meals, relief supplies, health, mental health and spiritual care services, support with finding loved ones and casework assistance." "The Red Cross was helping people before the fires started and will be there in the weeks and months to come helping people recover from this tragedy. In fact, the Red Cross has been providing humanitarian assistance in Hawaii as far back as 1898. Recovering from a wildfire of this magnitude will take time and the full community coming together to support one another." Learn more and donate Read the full statement on the American Red Cross website. Donate to the American Red Cross fundraising campaign for people affected by the wildfires. Follow @RedCross and @HawaiiRedCrossfor latest updates on their response. Learn more about wildfires and how to prepare and stay safe.

American Red Cross

MEDIA ADVISORY: Heatwaves – New Red Cross initiative to tackle climate change’s “silent killer”

New York/Geneva, 11 July 2019 – Francesco Rocca, President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), will give a press conference at 12:30 Tuesday 16 July in the Press Briefing Room of the United Nations in New York. He will present new Red Cross guidelines to help cities prepare for heatwaves - extreme weather events that are now one of the world’s deadliest natural hazards. He will also discuss the humanitarian consequences of climate change and the first-hand experience of Red Cross Red Crescent volunteers who are responding to the increasing frequency and severity of heatwaves and other extreme weather events.