When fire tore through an Easton apartment building last June, more than 30 people were left facing uncertainty.
As firefighters battled the flames, volunteers from the American Red Cross Pennsylvania Rivers Chapter — neighbors from the community — were there, comforting families and providing emergency lodging and recovery support.
Among the displaced was Debra, a retiree who returned from a trip to find her home condemned and her belongings damaged. Our volunteers provided her with resources and checked in over the following weeks, helping her make a plan to move forward. Debra told us she’s grateful for the quick assistance and compassion shown by our volunteers.
Thanks to donations, this kind of care happens every eight minutes when Red Cross volunteers help someone affected by a disaster in the U.S., most often, a home fire.
During the holidays, home fire responses spike nearly 20% nationwide due to seasonal risks. In our area alone, over 200 people typically need assistance after holiday home fires.
We’ll be there for them — because of our generous donors and volunteers who help in so many ways. Not just after disasters, but also for people needing lifesaving blood, first aid and CPR, and support navigating the challenges of military service.
If you can, please consider donating this holiday season at redcross.org. Just as the community rallied for Debra, let’s come together to ensure people have the support and care they need.
Peter Brown
Executive director, American Red Cross Pennsylvania Rivers Chapter