Red Cross response

WASILLA — In the aftermath of the magnitude 7.1 earthquake that struck Point Mackenzie on Nov. 30, 2018, the Red Cross mobilized to help displaced residents remain safe without a place to stay. In the following months, the Red Cross mobilized 144 disaster workers from around the state and the Lower 48 to help. A total of 230 overnight stays in Red Cross shelters in Anchorage, Eagle River and Wasilla were provided, and the Red Cross served 2,237 meals alongside nonprofit partners.

““It’s hard to believe the big earthquake was a year ago,” said Red Cross of Alaska Regional Disaster Officer, Kelley McGuirk. “I’m proud of our swift response, and our team’s ability to get much needed assistance to residents with major damages to their homes so quickly. The earthquake was unprecedented and our team did a great job of following the training they have, but also being flexible to meet the needs of those affected.”

Alaska is the most seismically active state in the nation and has hosted three of the seven largest earthquakes in the 20th century according to the Alaska Earthquake Center and the United States Geological Survey. The Red Cross provided immediate financial assistance to more than 494 residents in the process of opening 161 cases. The damaged homes of 680 residents were assessed using the Red Cross Collect app, and the Red Cross made nearly 350 individual care contacts to support the mental health and first aid needs of residents.