Albany, NY 11:41 PM September 12, 2009 — The American Red Cross of Northeastern New York (ARCNENY) has given immediate emergency aid to one family, representing 5 people, after a fire in Albany.

Red Cross Disaster Action Team volunteers gave temporary shelter and financial assistance for food and clothing to a family of five, two adults and three children (aged 4, 13 and 18) after a fire on Exchange Street.

In the coming days and weeks, Red Cross staff and volunteers will continue to work with those affected by today’s fire to provide more aid if needed, and help them develop a post-disaster plan to get started on the road to recovery.

Locally, more than 550 greater Capital Region residents serve as Red Cross volunteers. The Red Cross offers free training for Disaster Action Team volunteers. For information, contact the Red Cross at (518) 458-8111 or www.redcrossneny.org.

September is National Preparedness Month. The Red Cross urges greater Capital Region residents to prepare for emergencies such as home fires (the most common disaster in the United States) by making a family disaster plan and building a preparedness kit. For free tools and resources, visit www.redcrossneny.org/get_prepared.

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.