LEE COUNTY, Fla.- Southwest Florida is answering the call for help in areas of the country battered by Sandy.

Volunteers at the Lee County American Red Cross have been working all morning, loading up the ERVS (Emergency Response Vehicles) with things like food and water. The Red Cross has mobilized nearly 1,300 volunteers and 160 ERVS to send to states like New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island and Connecticut.

Locally, The Red Cross is sending two ERVS and four volunteers. They will be driving for two days and tentatively stopping in New Brunswick, New Jersey.
These volunteers have put their lives on hold, some even missing grandchildren's birthday parties, all to lend a helping hand.

Now, the Red Cross is asking for monetary help to pay for supplies. You can donate online at redcross.org or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.