The American Red Cross of Northeastern New York (ARCNENY) is giving emergency aid to five families, representing 19 people (10 adults and nine children), after a fire at their 6th Avenue home in Troy this evening.

Disaster Action Team volunteers met with the families after being called to the scene by local officials at approximately 5:30 p.m. Volunteers have given the victims temporary shelter, and will provide more assistance (such as aid for food, clothing or replacement medical items) as needed.

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

During the winter fire season, the Red Cross needs volunteers and financial donations to assist with disaster relief efforts in their eight-county service area. For more information or to make a donation, call (518) 458-8111 or visit www.redcrossneny.org.

About the American Red Cross of Northeastern New York
ARCNENY helps people prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies. Last year, nearly 1,000 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 92 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.