Bowling Green shelter 'on standby' for more possible evacuees

The Southcentral Kentucky chapter of the Red Cross opened a shelter for Florence evacuees on Saturday, for a family of 20 plus.

On Monday, the organization made an announcement about the status of the shelter as that family that was staying there, packed up this morning to assess the damage of their own home.

"They've got jobs and want to check on their home," said Jennifer Capps, Executive Director at Southcentral Kentucky chapter of the Red Cross. "We know they're anxious to put their eyes on it themselves."

With no more evacuees at the moment, the only evacuation shelter in the state of Kentucky, temporarily closed its doors Monday.

"The shelter will be put on standby for the next 24 hours so if there is a need in the community, we'll be able to open that back up," explained Capps.

On standby means making plans based on any and all scenarios. However, just because they've pack up, they're still prepared.

"We will restock the blankets and pillows and be ready to go should another group need these services," said Capps.

So, people can still consider Bowling Green a temporary home.

"We posted our number on the door if anyone needs shelter and they show up here because we are still listed as a Red Cross shelter and they can just notify us and we would come back."

The Southcentral Kentucky chapter of the Red Cross as well as First Baptist Church are both happy to accommodate those seeking shelter.

"You have trained volunteers in the community, we have shelter trailers that are stocked with our supplies, so it's a matter of pulling all of these resources that we have prepared together to make something like this happen," said Capps.

WBKO and the American Red Cross are teaming up to help those affected by Florence. You can stop by our parking lot, Thursday and Friday to drop off a monetary donation from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

You can also donate to relief efforts by texting 'Red Cross' to 90-999.

The Red Cross will host a blood drive on Wednesday at First Baptist Church downtown from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.