When tragedy strikes, first responders are always the first there.

But in the background lies a Red Cross team dedicated to getting those affected back on track. Whether it be financially, or pointing them in the right direction and where to go next, they are the Disaster Action Team.

“We turn tragedy into hope," Eastern New York Disaster Action Team lead Jay Belfiore says. "It’s a group of people that when people have the worst day of their life, we go out and try and give them hope to move on to the next step.”

Disaster Action Teams, DATs for short, are located all over the state and across the country. And volunteers, like eight-year veteran Belfiore are always looking to help out.

“I’ve had DATs from the Capital District go to Utica when there is flooding and help set up a shelter up there and meet with people up there," Belfiore says. "So it really is a flexible team of people that want to help people on their worst day.”

DATs played a major role in helping out during the Schoharie limousine crash back in 2018. Doing everything to help out, not just the families impacted, but the first responders, as well.

“That was a very challenging thing," Belfiore said. "Getting people at that level. We brought in spiritual care people. We had DATs there handing out blankets and handing out coffee and different things. We were there not so much to support them, if they wanted to talk to someone, we were there.”

Belfiore adds the Red Cross is always looking for new volunteers, saying being there in someone's time of need is instant fulfillment.

“I see how we’ve helped people at a wider view," he says. "It really is gratifying to see the people I’ve taught and the people I’ve helped, they go out and help the clients now. It’s a bigger picture, if you will.”

The Red Cross is always looking for volunteers for these teams and holds virtual information meetings on Thursdays. If you want to help, visit this link.