Tri-County Red Cross Responds for Plainfield Families After House Fire

Tri-County Red Cross Disaster Action Team was called to action on Thursday, July 31, 2008 to help two Plainfield families displaced by a devastating home fire. The Westervelt Avenue home suffered major structural damage and the families lost their residence as well as their personal belongings.    

The Paredes family of five and the other family of three living in the home received financial assistance to purchase food and new clothing.  Both families did not require emergency lodging because they were staying with family and friends.

"Our dedicated Disaster Action Team volunteers were there when these families needed help," said Nathan Rudy, CEO of the Tri-county Red Cross. "We are always looking for concerned citizens interested in being part of the solution when disaster strikes.  Without them, these two families would still be focusing on how to feed themselves instead of recovering and moving on."    

Support for disaster victim relief is provided by the Tri-County Red Cross Disaster Fund, and donated by local individuals, organizations and businesses.   The Red Cross receives no financial support from the government for these services, but relies on the kindness of neighbors. You can help ensure our fund is available for future disasters by donating online at www.tricountyredcross.org/donate.html, or by calling Corinna Krauskopf (908) 756-6414 or krauskopfc@usa.redcross.org.    

Local residents interesting in volunteering for the Disaster, Blood, Volunteer, Health and Safety or Fundraising committees should contact Victor Webb at (908) 756-6414 or webbv@usa.redcross.org .  Volunteers are the lifeblood of the Red Cross, and assignments can be tailored to fit anyone's interests, availability and ability.