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Ohio River Valley Red Cross recognizes Pickerings for their service

Red Cross volunteer Jan Pickering delivered meals and distributed relief supplies from an emergency response vehicle in North Carolina after Hurricane Helene. (Photo Provided)
Red Cross volunteer Chip Pickering oversaw emergency shelters in Florida and North Carolina for more than a month in the wake of Hurricane Helene. (Photo Provided)

PARKERSBURG — Chip and Jan Pickering of Wood County have demonstrated exceptional dedication as volunteers with the Ohio River Valley Chapter of the Red Cross.

Their selfless service during Hurricanes Helene and Milton exemplifies the best of American generosity and resilience, according to a press release from the local chapter.

Initially committing to three weeks of deployment, the Pickerings spent five to six weeks in Florida and North Carolina, responding to overwhelming needs. Chip, a shelter manager, started by overseeing small shelters and ultimately managed a mega shelter system in Florida, serving up to 85,000 people, with 3,000-5,000 sheltered daily. His leadership ensured safe havens for thousands displaced by Hurricane Milton, the release said.

Meanwhile, Jan worked tirelessly in North Carolina, delivering meals and distributing relief supplies from an emergency response vehicle. Her efforts brought critical sustenance and comfort to storm-stricken communities, said the release.

Their extraordinary contributions have earned recognition through the “Caught Doing Good” grant supported by SDR and Ritchie Family Advised Fund, which honors their service and supports the American Red Cross’s ongoing relief efforts in North Carolina and Tennessee. Chip and Jan Pickering’s story is a powerful reminder of the impact of compassion in the face of disaster, the release said.

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