Red Cross deploys Columbus-based vehicle to disaster zone

An emergency response vehicle from the Columbus branch of the American Red Cross left yesterday morning to help victims of Hurricane Dorian.

Donna M Colón, executive director, of the Red Cross region, says that Indiana is providing three of the ERVs and six full-time volunteers to help hurricane victims.

The ERVs are basically a box truck set up with heavy duty chassis ans suspension. They are used to distribute food, water and supplies to those in need.

The  exact location where the Columbus vehicle will be deployed has yet to be determined. Colón said the national level Red Cross determines the need and then asks local agencies to send their equipment and volunteers.

She said being a volunteer on the ERV requires specialized training.

If you want to help, you can visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text the word DORIAN to 90999 to make a $10 donation.