University Park Mall, a Simon mall, announced this week that the center will serve as a donation location for the American Red Cross as it works to offer relief for Hoosiers affected by the catastrophic flooding in northern Indiana.

Throughout the month of March, shoppers may stop by Guest Services to make a cash donation to the American Red Cross. The mall will also donate all change tossed in the fountain to this worthy cause. In addition, donations can be made by phone by calling

1-800-513-2599, or by texting Red Cross to 90999.

The Department of Homeland Security reports that this week’s flooding constitutes a 500-year-flood event, with historic flooding in many of the affected areas. A state of emergency has been declared for Carroll, Dearborn, Lake, Perry, Switzerland, St. Joseph, Elkhart, Marshall, Starke, Fulton, and White Counties. More than 160 Red Cross volunteers have thus far served 2,394 meals from six emergency response vehicles; provided 165 overnight shelter stays; and performed 95 health and mental services contacts.