ATLANTA — The American Red Cross of Georgia is sending volunteers to help those suffering from wildfire damage in Hawaii.
Evan Peterson, Regional Communications Manager for the American Red Cross of Georgia, is one of those leaving town Friday to assist families.
“There are so many Red Cross volunteers, staff who have answered this call for help in Hawaii,” said Peterson. “We are so fortunate to be able to be in a position where we can help these people. From what we’ve been able to see from afar, from what I’ve been able to see here in Georgia, we know everyone is going through an awful lot right now.”
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The fast-moving wildfires that raked Maui this week took a heavy toll on humans and property, killing dozens of people and devastating the historic town of Lahaina.
But their effects on the landscape and environment in Hawaii are also expected to be significant.
Experts say the fires are likely to transform the landscape in unwanted ways including hastening erosion, sending sediment into waterways and degrading coral that is critically important to the islands, marine life and the humans who live nearby.
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Peterson will be part of the team helping to provide emergency supplies and shelter for those who have lost their homes. The team will also be helping plan the long-term recovery process.
“Our hearts are with them and we’re going to be right beside of them every step of the way,” said Peterson.
Peterson will send back updates when he arrives on the island.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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