The American Red Cross will transition the Rome City Elementary School shelter into a Red Cross Welcome Center today at 7 p.m. Since 1 p.m., on May 30, the population for the shelter has remained at zero. The Welcome Center will be open Thursday and Friday from 2 p.m.-6p.m., to address inquires and provide information to residents affected by the storms. The Center will remain at the Rome City Elementary School until Friday, June 2.

Katherine MacAulay, executive director for the American Red Cross Northeast chapter, commended the efforts and dedication from the volunteers, Red Cross staff, local emergency management and government officials. “Moving forward becomes easier with the assistance and commitment of those willing to help out when disasters emerge,” said MacAulay. “Although the next steps will take time, the Red Cross will remain present. Our work is never done.”

Floods are among the most frequent and costly natural disasters. The Red Cross is committed to remaining in Noble County until those impacted are able to recover.