American Red Cross responds to tragic fire in Siler city

Posted Wednesday, November 14, 2007

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Siler City, NC - The Orange County and Triangle Area Red Cross Chapters responded to the tragic fire at Brook Wood Apartments located in Siler City on Monday, November 5, 2007, providing emergency assistance in the form of food, new clothing, counseling and shelter for those affected. Members of the community who wish to help can make a tax-deductible donation to the American Red Cross.

Damage Assessment indicates that three units were affected, one with major damage and two others with smoke damage. Four families which include 19 individuals were displaced by the fire. So far, the American Red Cross has given disaster victims more than $1600 in financial assistance to purchase food and new clothing. “The Red Cross anticipates additional commitments of $2000 for assistance with burial expenses, first months rent, bedding and linens,” stated Patricia Le Roy, Disaster Director for the Triangle Area Chapter. We are coordinating mental health counseling with El-Futuo and have been in communication with the Mexican Consulate office that will provide additional assistance to the families. Red Cross caseworkers are working with the property manager to make sure that each of these families have a property to move into or can move back in to their unit once the cleanup has been accomplished.”

“We’re deeply saddened for the family affected,” said Barry Porter, Executive Director of the Triangle Area Chapter. “As we continue to work with those involved, we’d also like to help others take action to prevent and prepare for home fires throughout Chatham County.”

“We are grateful that the American Red Cross provides critical emergency assistance for Chatham County families left homeless by fires,” stated Tony Tucker, Chatham County Emergency Manager. I encourage you to support the American Red Cross through donations of volunteer services and financial contributions to help our neighbors in their greatest hour of need.”

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All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people. You can help the victims of thousands of disasters across the country each year, disasters like the fire in Siler City, by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, which enables the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance to victims of disaster. The American Red Cross honors donor intent. If you wish to designate your donation to a specific disaster please do so at the time of your donation. Call 1-800-REDCROSS or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish). Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may be sent to your local American Red Cross chapter or to the American Red Cross, P.O. Box 37243, Washington, DC 20013. Internet users can make a secure online contribution by visiting www.redcross.org.

For more Red Cross fire safety and preparedness information visit www.trianglearc.org.