Red Cross helps Missouri communities bounce back from disasters in 2025
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — Communities recovering from disasters and devastating events this year received many helping hands from the Red Cross in Kansas City and Northwest Missouri.
Greater Kansas City and Northwest Missouri Red Cross volunteers worked alongside community partners to provide help to families affected by tornadoes, severe weather, floods and house fires. They provided key aid to those affected by the tornadoes that hit St. Louis and other areas last spring.
The Red Cross expects the need for help to grow during the holidays. Home fire responses spike nearly 20% during the holidays because of increased fire risks from cooking and heating.
In a typical November and December in the Missouri and Arkansas region, nearly 2,000 people turn to the Red Cross for help after home fires.
As disasters become more frequent, families rely on the Red Cross for support — and they are ready to heed the call.
“Disasters don’t take holidays — and neither do our volunteers,” said JoAnn Woody, executive director, Red Cross of Greater Kansas City and Northwest Missouri in a press release.
Donations make it possible for volunteers to bring support to families in need. To make a donation and read stories about people the Red Cross aided, visit redcross.org/MOYearInReview. To sign up to volunteer, visit redcross.org/volunteer. You can also give back by donating blood and platelets.
Other ways responders helped local communities
- Saved lives nationwide and in the Greater Kansas City and Northwest Missouri area through over 23,150 local blood and platelet donations
- Installed 870 free smoke alarms in nearly 440 homes through the Home Fire Campaign
- Sent holiday cards and care packages to active-duty service members and veterans
- Hosted Resiliency and Coping with Deployment workshops
- Helped over 23,300 community members learn lifesaving skills through training in first aid, CPR and AED
