American Red Cross closes emergency shelter in Mat-Su

Now that the winds have calmed, power has been restored to nearly everyone, and clean-up is under way, the Matanuska-Susitna Borough has asked that the American Red Cross of Alaska close the emergency center located at the Menard Sports Complex effective 8 a.m. Wednesday morning.

While the shelter was in operation, the American Red Cross served an average of 17 overnight guests each night, provided a warm space and electricity for more than 50 people, and provided more than 200 meals, including snacks, during this disaster response.

Initially, a shelter was set up at the Glenn Massay Theater at the Mat-Su College, but it was functioning with only one generator, says Taylar Sausen, Director of Communications for the Red Cross.

The shelter then relocated to the Menard Sports Center in Wasilla capable of accommodating more families needing to get in from the bitter cold, as well as providing shelter for those whose homes were damaged in several fires over the weekend.

“We are beyond grateful,” said Sarah Vibbert, whose family utilized the shelter after the power in their Palmer apartment had been out for over 24 hours and the temperatures inside dropped to the mid-50s. “Our hearts are just so full that there is some place for us.”

Residents with damage to their homes who are unable to return after the storm may call 1-800-RED-CROSS for additional assistance.