Red Cross helps family of seven after fire destroys their home

An Indianapolis mother and her six children, ages 12 years to 3 months, had a safe place to stay over the long Memorial Day Weekend after fire destroyed their home and belongings Saturday afternoon.

A Red Cross Disaster Action Team volunteer arranged for the housing, as well as provided the family with emergency assistance for food and clothing. A Red Cross staff caseworker will follow up with the mother to help her develop a recovery plan, address any unmet needs and refer her to additional 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 500 local families get back on their feet 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. To make a contribution to the American Red Cross of Greater Indianapolis Local Disaster Relief Fund, click here.

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.