Tri-County Red Cross Responds to Two Plainfield Fires in One Weekend

PLAINFIELD (November 4, 2008) Two fires this past weekend in Plainfield required the services of the Tri-County Red Cross Disaster Action Team. 

A fire on Plainfield Avenue, Saturday November 1, sent five families scrambling for safety.  Tri-County Red Cross Disaster Action Team Volunteer Terri Esposito responded to the scene and provided emergency housing and financial support to several residents including the Norris family and their two children. 

Sunday November 2, a residential fire on Saint Mary's Avenue affected the residence of the Brown and Williams families.  Severe smoke and water damage affected their homes, preventing their return once the fire was extinguished.  Fortunately, the Tri-County Red Cross Disaster Action Team responded and provided them with a clean place to stay and the means to purchase new clothing and food as they begin to pick up the pieces.

"Home fires are disasters that can happen at any time," said Michael Prasad, Director of Emergency Services. "The families of these two disasters in Plainfield can focus on their recovery because our volunteers were there to provide them with the essentials.  It allows the victims 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 donations 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 Corinna Krauskopf at (908) 756-6414 or krauskopfc@usa.redcross.org. Volunteers are the lifeblood of the Red Cross, and assignments can be tailored to fit anyone's interests, availability and ability.