Red Cross Needs Aquidneck Island Shelter Volunteers

The American Red Cross Rhode Island Chapter is seeking shelter volunteers on Aquidneck Island to help in the event local shelters are needed in times of emergency or disaster. 

Along with the Red Cross' emergency management partners on Aquidneck Island, the organization will host a hurricane and blizzard preparation drill on Saturday, July 26, at 7:30 a.m. at the Gaudet Middle School Gymnasium, 1113 Aquidneck Avenue, Middletown, RI 02842, on the Turner Road side. The training is free and open to the public.  

“Hurricane season is here and the Red Cross is working to be prepared for severe weather or other emergencies that might require opening a shelter,” said Red Cross Emergency Services Senior Director Elizabeth McDonald. 

McDonald said Shelter Associates provide care and support to their neighbors in the event of a disaster. She added that current volunteers would be at the meeting to help answer questions. “The work is important, but the skills are easily learned and we are ready to train you.” 

McDonald said the role is one of many available to anyone interested in becoming a volunteer. “Since 1916, the Rhode Island Chapter of the Red Cross has been helping communities prepare for and respond to disasters. I look forward to meeting residents of East Providence who will help us continue this great tradition.” 

The hurricane and blizzard preparation drill is on Saturday, July 26, at 7:30AM, at the Gaudet Middle School Gymnasium, 1113 Aquidneck Avenue, Middletown, RI 02842, on the Turner Road side. Red Cross personnel will be available to provide information and answer questions about Shelter Associate volunteering. Interested people will have the opportunity to learn more about the volunteer needs of the Chapter and to meet current volunteers. Attendance is open to anyone aged 16 or older. For more information, call the Chapter at (401) 831-7701.