Apartment Fire Victims-Red Cross Needs Your Help

November 7, 2002
Residents of the Scotsdale Apartments in Springfield became victims of the most common disaster is southwest Missouri on the afternoon of November 7, 2002. Fire erupted in a basement apartment and residents of 14 apartments quickly became victims in need of a safe, warm place to spend the night, as well as food and clothing.

American Red Cross volunteers were on the scene before firemen departed to identify people affected by the fire and offer Red Cross assistance. That afternoon, lodging provisions at a local hotel were provided for fire victims who did not choose to spend the night with family or friends. Clothing packs containing a new sweatshirt and sweatpants were offered to those who could not retrieve any clothing, and comfort kits to meet personal hygiene needs. Additionally, arrangements were made at local restaurants for evening meals.

The local American Red Cross is asking area residents to financially support disaster relief efforts. A recent rash of large apartment fires, each affecting multiple families, has been very expensive. The fire at the Scotsdale apartment complex affected 14 apartments in a 24-unit building. And while some apartments suffered only minor damage, the cost of Red Cross assistance is expected be near $5,000.

Last year, the American Red Cross responded to 261 disasters in southwest Missouri and gave help and hope to 1,082 disaster victims. The majority of these clients were victims of house fires, the most common disaster response in the Greater Ozarks Chapter coverage area of 14 counties. Financial support from southwest Missourians is a vital foundation for serving our neighbors in their darkest hours.

Red Cross caseworkers meet individually with disaster clients and continue to support them until all disaster-caused needs are met. And Red Cross volunteers will continue to respond to fires and other disasters in southwest Missouri, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to give help and hope to our neighbors. But they need your support. Will you consider helping the Red Cross Save The Day for fire victims?
Your contributions make a difference right here in the Ozarks. To make a financial contribution, Donate Now!

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