Three families displaced by weekend fires turn to the Red Cross for help

Thanks to the emergency assistance of the Red Cross, three Indianapolis mothers are breathing a sigh of relief and taking the first important steps in moving forward with their lives after fire damaged their homes over the weekend.

In three separate incidents, involving a total of 13 individuals, Marion County Disaster Action Team volunteers helped the women obtain things such as housing, food and clothing. Disaster caseworkers are following up with each of them today to address any unmet needs their families might have, collaborate on long-term recovery plans and provide referrals to additional community resources.

The most common disaster in central Indiana is the home fire. These quiet personal tragedies take a toll on hundreds of Hoosier households each year, one family at a time. Since July 1, 2009, the Greater Indianapolis Red Cross has helped more than 450 families after fires.

The American Red Cross of Greater Indianapolis is on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to respond to disasters and other emergencies. All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by the voluntary donations of time and money from the American people.

Help people affected by disasters by donating to the American Red Cross of Greater Indianapolis Local Disaster Relief Fund. Your gift enables the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance to victims of disaster. Contributions to the Greater Indianapolis Red Cross Local Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to the American Red Cross of Greater Indianapolis, 441 E. 10th St., Indianapolis, IN 46202-3388. Contributions can also be made by calling 317-684-1441. Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting www.indyredcross.org.