Elizabeth (August 26, 2008) Two fires
this week in Elizabeth required the services of the Tri-County Red Cross
Disaster Action Team.
Thursday
August 21, a restaurant fire sent the Harris family living above scrambling for
safety. Tri-County Red Cross Disaster
Action Team Volunteers, Frank D'Amore and Joe Czarnecki responded to the scene
and provided emergency housing and financial support to purchase food and
clothing. The cause of the fire is still
under investigation and with the help of the Tri-County Red Cross, the Harris
family has food, clothing and a place to stay as they move on from this local
disaster.
Monday
August 25 an apartment fire on Kilsyth Road affected the residence of the Castro family. Their apartment suffered severe smoke and
water damage, preventing their return once the fire was extinguished. Fortunately, the Tri-County Red Cross
Disaster Action Team responded and provided the Castro family with the means to
purchase new clothing and food while they stay with family.
"It
is really rewarding to be in the position to help people when they are most
vulnerable - after a disaster," said Santiago Soto, Senior Director of
Services for the Tri-County Red Cross. "Both of these families can focus
on the recovery because we were there to provide them with the essentials. It is empowering for everybody affected by
the disaster; to move on and regain a sense of control in their life."
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.
Leave a comment