MASSIVE RED CROSS RESPONSE TO ISAAC UNDERWAY ALONG GULF COAST

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The American Red Cross has a massive relief response underway along the Gulf Coast where Isaac's strong winds and relentless rain are continuing to leave flooded homes and thousands of evacuees in its wake.

Overnight more than 4,700 people stayed in as many as 80 Red Cross or community shelters in seven states. More people may need shelter today as evacuations continue. In addition to staffing shelters, the more than 3,000 Red Cross disaster workers have already served more than 22,000 meals and snacks.

"We need the public's help," reported Charley Shimanski, senior vice president for Red Cross Disaster Services. "We expect to be in the Gulf Coast region for weeks helping people recover from Isaac, even as we are still helping people out west affected by wildfires. It's been a busy summer and our costs are growing by the hour. People can help by donating today."

People can click or text to donate by visiting www.redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or texting REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. read more