Tucson volunteer helps with storm recovery in Florida

TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) – MaRico Tippett, a Tucson resident and volunteer with the American Red Cross, recently traveled to Florida to help with storm recovery efforts. After a week on site, he reported that while progress has been made in the city’s cleanup efforts, significant destruction remains.

Tippett, who serves as the elected official liaison, began his efforts in Tampa and has since moved to Daytona. He noted that between 750 and 1,100 volunteers are currently assisting with disaster relief efforts across the state.

“There are some areas that are really affected by wind damage, and other areas that are really affected by flooding,” Tippett said.

Tippett stressed the urgent need for more volunteers, saying: “The speed of recovery is directly proportional to the number of volunteers we can get to support each of these disasters.”

Tippett will be in Florida for another week, where he will focus on getting kids back to school and helping as many people as possible.

Tippett says recovery efforts could take weeks or even months. Those wishing to support affected communities can contact the American Red Cross for more information.