Albany, NY (August 19) 9:45 p.m.— The American Red Cross of Northeastern New York (ARCNENY) has given emergency aid to 12 people, after fires yesterday and today in Albany, Rensselaer and Scotia:

• This afternoon, Red Cross volunteers were called to give financial aid for food and clothing to three adults affected by a fire that occurred yesterday on Broadway in Albany;
• Also today, Red Cross volunteers gave temporary shelter and financial assistance for food and clothing to two adults following a fire on Glen Avenue in Scotia;
• Tonight, volunteers gave temporary shelter and aid to two families, representing three adults and four children after a home fire on Third Street in Rensselaer.

In the coming days and weeks, Red Cross volunteers will continue to work with all those affected by these recent fires to provide more aid if needed, and help each family develop a post-disaster plan to get started on the road to recovery.

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.