Red Cross closes temporary shelter in Yuma

Having met all needs in the aftermath of Sunday's storm, the American Red Cross Grand Canyon Chapter closed its shelter at Castle Dome Middle School in Yuma.

The shelter was used Monday and Tuesday to provide food, water and housing following the storm-related power outages.

“Thanks to the efforts of the community, governmental and charitable organizations in Yuma, we were able to provide services to those affected by the power outages,” said Lupe Velasquez, the disaster response manager for the Grand Canyon Chapter.

“The staff at Castle Dome was gracious in opening their doors and giving displaced residents a roof over their heads. The Red Cross strives to meet the needs of Yuma residents during emergencies, small and large, and we'll continue to do so.”

By Tuesday afternoon, Arizona Public Service had restored service to all but a hundred of the 19,000 customers who lost power. With no residents remaining at the overnight shelter, the Red Cross vacated the school's gymnasium at 1 p.m. Tuesday.

Yuma residents still without power or running water who need aid are encouraged to contact the Red Cross at 1-800-842-7349.

The organization assisted 16 residents and logged 29 visitors during the time the shelter was open. It distributed 250 meals and snacks, 150 bottles of water and five comfort kits containing toiletries.

It also handed out 50 meals and snacks and 60 bottles of water to homebound Yuma residents.

In addition, Yuma-based Red Cross volunteers helped give out some of the 18,000 pounds of dry ice supplied by APS at Mount Zion Church.

Mara Knaub can be reached at mknaub@yumasun.com or (928) 539-6856. Find her on Facebook at Facebook.com/YSMaraKnaub or on Twitter at @YSMaraKnaub.