TACOMA – Tacoma Goodwill will provide the American Red Cross with clothing vouchers starting today for victims of last week’s record rains.

The Red Cross will distribute the vouchers to people recovering from the flooding. The vouchers can be used at any Tacoma Goodwill located in Pierce, Thurston or South King County. At least $5,000 in vouchers are expected to be used but more will be made available if needed, said Terry A. Hayes, Tacoma Goodwill CEO.

“This is the most effective and immediate way for us to help those in need,” Hayes said. “We knew we wanted to help.”

It’s not the first time Tacoma Goodwill has made vouchers available to disaster victims through the American Red Cross. When Hurricane Katrina destroyed homes and belongings for thousands, Goodwill provided nearly $8,400 in store vouchers for those who relocated here besides providing a job developer to help evacuees find employment. Total hurricane relief came to more than $33,300 from Tacoma Goodwill.

The vouchers will be given directly to the Red Cross, which will then distribute them in denominations for individuals and families. The vouchers are good at any Tacoma Goodwill location in Pierce, Thurston or southern King counties. More than 1,500 people were reportedly evacuated from their homes during the heaviest rainfall Nov. 6-7. Portions of Pierce County including Puyallup, Orting and Sumner were affected.