Albany, NY (July 1) 9:00 p.m.— The American Red Cross of Northeastern New York (ARCNENY) has given emergency aid to one family, representing one adult and six children, after the roof of their home in Idlewild Park in Watervliet collapsed.

Disaster Action Team volunteers responded to the scene immediately to provide free aid including temporary shelter and financial assistance for food and clothing. In the coming days, Red Cross volunteers will continue to work with the family to provide more aid if needed, and help them develop a post-disaster plan to get started on the road to recovery.

Tonight, the Red Cross has also been called to respond to flooding in Berne, as well as a home struck by lightning in Cohoes. The lightning strike in Cohoes caused minor damage, and none of the victims in Cohoes or Berne requested Red Cross aid after meeting with volunteers.

About the American Red Cross of Northeastern New York
ARCNENY helps people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies. Last year, nearly 1,100 residents of the Capital Region and surrounding areas were provided free, emergency assistance by ARCNENY after disasters such as fires, floods, and power outages. In addition, thousands were assisted by the Red Cross after the December 2008 ice storm; more than 700 victims received shelter with the Red Cross during that time.

The Red Cross is not a government agency; it relies on donations of time, money and blood from the American people to do its work. An average of 90 cents of every dollar the Red Cross spends is invested in humanitarian services and programs. For more information about your local Red Cross, visit www.redcrossneny.org or call (518) 458-8111.