Some Idaho volunteers are heading east to help out in the wake of Hurricane Matthew. Johnnie Sue Elliott has been volunteering with the American Red Cross for about 10 years. In that time, she's been on about a dozen national deployments to respond to disasters.
We caught up with her on her way down to Florida, in an emergency response vehicle to help with relief efforts.
"I think it's a cool thing to get to do. It's a good way to serve. I've been blessed in my life. I'm at a time in my life that I can give back," said Johnnie Sue Elliott, American Red Cross Volunteer.
The volunteers will distribute two hot meals a day as well as snacks and water to people who have been affected by the storm.
"They cook the food, they prepare the food, and we load it up in our vehicles and then take it to the people. Sometimes we will take it to a shelter where there are apparently thousands of people in shelters on the east coast right now, in the south," said Elliott.
For folks who are not able to leave the state, they can help out right here in Idaho.
"I'm due to donate anyway," said Larry Brown, American Red Cross volunteer.
Larry brown is also a volunteer at the American Red Cross. He donates blood regularly and today he is donating specifically for folks affected by Hurricane Matthew.
"I know that the centers are closed. People have evacuated, they're not taking the time to make the donations that are needed and the need is huge right now,” said Brown.
Many blood drives have been canceled along the east coast as a result of the storm and there is potential of a short supply. The American Red Cross is asking anyone who is able, to donate blood.
