American Red Cross of Eastern NC prepares to help storm-weary Florida residents through Hurricane Nicole

American Red Cross volunteers and staff are once again providing food, shelter and comfort for storm-weary Floridians.

Barry Porter, regional director of the American Red Cross of Eastern North Carolina, said many volunteers are pivoting from helping Hurricane Ian victims to helping those impacted by Nicole.

He said the storm itself may not be as severe, but mental and spiritual issues may weigh heavier on residents.

"And so here it comes again, right?" Porter said. "And you’re just now beginning to pick up the pieces, and you begin to wonder what is going to happen next?"

Since Hurricane Ian, Porter said they have sent several waves of volunteers to help with recovery in Florida. Another wave of volunteers is being sent this weekend for continued support.

Porter said volunteers are in a good positions to help those impacted by Nicole, unless the storm becomes more sever than predicted.

Even with a weaker storm, officials are concerned about debris from Ian, which could cause problems as Nicole moves through the Sunshine State.

That’s why they want those most at risk to take advantage of safe shelter and the helping hands of American Red Cross volunteers.

"We want to make sure that we can give comfort and hope to people that they, too, can get through the storm as they were from the last one." Porter said. "That feeling that somebody is there who cares; it’s very much been a feeling of community, a feeling of connectedness."