During the 2008 hurricane season, millions of people were forced to evacuate their homes—many of whom eventually returned to find their homes damaged or destroyed. This past hurricane season was one of the most destructive and costliest seasons in history. More than 26,000 Red Cross disaster workers responded to eight named storms—Dolly, Edouard, Fay, Gustav, Hanna, Ike, Lowell and Omar.

Generous foundations, corporations and individuals enabled our immediate response. With the support of their donations and through the strength of the Disaster Relief Fund, we were able to open 1,012 shelters that provided nearly 500,000 overnight stays. We quickly deployed emergency response vehicles that helped distribute more than 16 million meals and snacks. We distributed more than 230,000 clean-up and comfort kits that provided the basic necessities needed following a disaster.

We have provided a report, A Sure Presence—The American Red Cross Response to the Hurricanes of 2008, in addition to photo essays and stories to let you know how your contribution was put to work to help those affected by the 2008 hurricane season.