Albany, NY December 13, 2009 — The American Red Cross of Northeastern New York (ARCNENY) has given immediate emergency aid to four people, representing two adults and two youth (ages sixteen and seventeen), after a fire in a duplex on Maple Avenue in Schenectady.

Red Cross Disaster Action Team volunteers gave temporary shelter and financial assistance for food and clothing, including winter coats, to the four people affected.

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 900 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 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 1,100 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.