Montreal, May 3, 2011 - Teams of volunteer responders in the areas of the Montérégie impacted by severe spring floods have been mobilized since last week to provide support to families affected by the disaster. Right now, Red Cross teams are providing basic services in reception and information centres that have been set up in 5 municipalities at the request of local authorities. Saint-Jean, Iberville, Saint-Blaise-sur-Richelieu, Sainte-Anne-de-Sabrevois and Saint-Paul-de-l’Île-aux-Noix. Based on an assessment of their needs, volunteers provide evacuated families with lodging and food in addition to offering registration, information and support services during these difficult times.
As the situation evolves, additional Red Cross teams are ready to step in and take action to support the families who are dealing with flooding in already-affected areas or in other regions throughout the province. Volunteers are trained in emergency response and the materials required for this type of operation (cots, blankets, hygiene kits) are stored in advance in warehouses throughout Quebec, including one storage facility in the area currently affected by the floods. These items can be deployed quickly and easily when the need arises.
About the Red Cross in Quebec The Red Cross operates before, during and after disasters occur to meet the most urgent needs. Just as it does everywhere else, in Quebec, the Red Cross develops prevention programs, it facilitates community preparedness and it provides human and material support to those who have lost everything following a disaster. Three times a day, teams of volunteer responders, trained in disaster management, are mobilized to help people affected by disasters. The range of services provided by the Quebec Division includes lodging and food for the first three days following a disaster. The humanitarian organization also provides emergency clothing and personal services during this same period. The Red Cross supports the local authorities as well as the Quebec government according to their needs. It is their preferred partner when it comes to disaster management.