What role did the American Red Cross play in the Johnstown Flood?

The American Red Cross played a crucial role in the aftermath of the Johnstown Flood in 1889, which resulted from the failure of the South Fork Dam and caused widespread devastation in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. Led by Clara Barton, the organization mobilized quickly to provide emergency relief, including food, shelter, and medical care to the survivors. The Red Cross's efforts helped to coordinate recovery efforts and laid the groundwork for the organization's future disaster response initiatives. This event marked one of the first major responses by the American Red Cross to a domestic disaster, significantly shaping its mission and operations.