Minnesota woman aids Hurricane Helene recovery in Georgia

In October 2024, volunteers from Minnesota, including Susan Sparling-Micks, were deployed to Georgia to assist in recovery efforts following hurricanes Helene and Milton. Sparling-Micks, who has nearly a decade of experience with the Red Cross, spent two weeks assessing damage across the state, often working 13-hour days. She reported extensive destruction, primarily from fallen trees impacting homes and vehicles, with some families displaced due to unsafe living conditions. One notable case involved a mother of three who could not retrieve her belongings from her damaged home due to large trees blocking access. Sparling-Micks' role involved documenting the damage through photographs and engaging with local communities to gather information on the extent of the destruction. This grassroots approach allowed her to identify areas in need of assistance, which the Red Cross could then address with resources. Many residents were still without electricity weeks after the hurricanes, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by affected communities. The Red Cross relies on volunteers like Sparling-Micks to provide critical assessments that inform their response strategies. Her commitment to helping others reflects the organization's mission to support those in crisis. As she considers another mission to Florida, where Hurricane Milton caused significant damage, her experiences underscore the importance of volunteer efforts in disaster recovery. The situation in Georgia serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of natural disasters and the essential role of community support and volunteerism in recovery efforts.