LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC 36 NEWS NOW) – Many residents are waking up to the devastation left by Hurricane Milton, with a path of destruction across Florida. As recovery efforts begin, the state is working to address the needs of those impacted by the storm. The Red Cross branch in Lexington says they’re working to get volunteers and resources down to Florida. “Our top priorities right now are getting volunteers out there to help those that have been effected by Helene, and also now Milton,” said Lynne Washbish with American Red Cross Bluegrass. A group of approximately three dozen volunteers from Kentucky, organized through the Red Cross, is heading to Florida to provide relief. Red Cross officials report that over 2,000 volunteers are currently assisting in recovery efforts. “”That’s going to be the most need right now is feeding and sheltering, so that’s most likely what most volunteers will do,” said Washbish. “Pretty much work with a lot of kitchens and people are donating food, and that’s what we do, we bring them in the shelter and we get their necessities that they need the most, and so we get them what they need, said Washbish.” In addition, three crew members from the Lexington Fire Department are also bringing aid to the state of Florida after previously helping those impacted by Helene. The Red Cross emphasizes the ongoing need for donations and additional volunteers to aid those affected by both major hurricanes. “We need volunteers, we need donations, and we need blood. Right now we need to help those impacted by this, horrific, Helene and Milton,” said Washbish. “I mean we don’t know the scale of Milton at this point, but Helene, you know those are just our three critical needs right now,” she said. The Red Cross Bluegrass branch asking for help from the community as their efforts continue. Categories: Featured, Local News, National News, News, Weather Tags: florida, Hurricane Helene, hurricane milton, Kentucky, Recovery Efforts, red cross, volunteer assistance