Ohio River Valley Red Cross Gets New Emergency Vehicle

New Emergency Response Vehicle Enhances Disaster Relief Capabilities

The Ohio River Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross has taken a significant step forward in its mission to support communities during times of crisis by acquiring a new Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV). This addition marks a pivotal moment for the chapter, allowing it to respond more efficiently and effectively to disasters that may occur within its service area.

Tom Gyongyosi, the board chair for the Ohio River Valley Chapter, emphasized the importance of this new vehicle. He explained that previously, when a disaster struck, the chapter had to rely on other chapters or regions to provide a response vehicle. “Now, we’re going to be able to respond right away,” he said. This change is expected to significantly reduce response times and improve the overall effectiveness of the chapter’s disaster relief efforts.

Todd Wines, the community disaster program manager for the chapter, shared insights into how the lack of an ERV affected the chapter's operations during recent events. He recalled the challenges faced during the Wheeling floods, where the chapter had to depend on vehicles from as far away as Charleston and Morgantown. “We were constantly borrowing from other areas when we had the Wheeling floods recently,” Wines said. “They had to come from further away to be able to get that help.”

Sharon Kesselring, the executive director of the Ohio River Valley Chapter, highlighted another key benefit of the ERV: its ability to access difficult locations during a disaster. “An emergency response vehicle can sometimes go places where our vehicles can’t go,” she explained. While the ERV is not necessarily a four-wheel drive, it is designed to navigate challenging terrain, such as areas with fallen tree limbs. This capability allows the chapter to reach individuals who may be struggling to clean up their homes after a flood and provides them with essential services like hot meals without requiring them to leave their homes.

Kesselring also mentioned that the acquisition of the ERV has prompted the chapter to seek more volunteers. She noted that the chapter is committed to offering flexible opportunities for those interested in volunteering. “Driving an emergency response vehicle is just one of the ways of volunteering,” she said. “We discuss all those different ways to allow them to make up their minds how they want to do it.” Volunteers can choose when they want to be on call, accommodating personal schedules and commitments.

Wines and volunteer Chuck Clegg both emphasized the qualities required to become a volunteer with the Red Cross. “You got to want to be out there,” Wines said. “You’re going to be out there at the worst moments of people’s lives. So, you have to have that compassion and willingness to go out there and support these folks with a hot meal or clean supplies to help get them on the road to recovery.”

Clegg echoed these sentiments, adding, “You have to have a big heart and the love to make a difference.” These words underscore the deep sense of dedication and empathy that drives those who choose to serve in times of need.

For those interested in learning more about the Ohio River Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross, there are several ways to connect and get involved. The chapter continues to work closely with the communities it serves, ensuring that everyone has access to the support they need during emergencies. Whether through direct assistance, training programs, or volunteer opportunities, the chapter remains committed to making a positive impact in the region.