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Chicago Red Cross Volunteers Helping Louisiana Flood Victims

CHICAGO (CBS) -- A number of volunteers from Chicago are among the Red Cross personnel working in the flood zone in Louisiana.

Joe Dillett and Bill Brady drove an emergency response unit 1,000 miles over 2-1/2 days from Chicago, arriving early Wednesday because of a delay caused by a flat tire.

A Good Samaritan changed the flat tire at the side of a road in Mississippi. After the changed tire was checked out in the next town, they were on their way.

As soon as the truck arrived in Baton Rouge, it was put to work transporting bottled water and ready-to-eat meals to Clinton, Louisiana.

Dillett says he and Brady saw evidence of monumental flooding-- ruined homes and piles of waterlogged belongings piled on curbs. He says it will take quite a while to rebuild.

The Red Cross prefers monetary donations to in-kind (canned food, clothing, et al.) assistance. Find out how you can help at redcross.org.

Find out how to donate via the Red Cross website, text message, phone or mail here.

Find out how to donate through The Salvation Army here.

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