The Red Cross flood relief effort in Orange and Sullivan Counties is one of the largest in five decades. Approximately 40 Red Cross workers from the Orange-Sullivan area, as well as Westchester and Putnam Counties and New York City participated in the operation, which will continue throughout the week.

In Orange County, the Red Cross opened a Service Center at 150 Pike Street, Port Jervis, yesterday, where family services caseworkers met with people in need of emergency assistance. The Center will be open on Wednesday, April 6, and Thursday, April 7, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

In Sullivan County, Red Cross caseworkers continue to meet one-on-one with clients in areas hit hardest by the flood. The Red Cross will open a Service Center at the United Way of Sullivan County, 33 Lakewood Avenue, Monticello, on Thursday, April 7, where people displaced by flooding can meet with caseworkers from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Last night, the Red Cross provided emergency assistance including temporary housing, food, clothing, cleaning supplies and emotional support to more than 300 people throughout Orange/Sullivan Counties. Red Cross workers distributed more than 850 meals, snacks, and supply kits to people displaced by flooding.

It is anticipated many residents will need further assistance with necessities such as food, clothing and medication. As residents begin to return home, arrangements will be made to ensure those affected have access to any Red Cross assistance they may need. People displaced by the North Eastern flooding who are in need of emergency assistance should contact the Red Cross at 1-877 RED-CROSS.