Staff and volunteers respond to six fires in five parishes this weekend, affecting 20 people

BATON ROUGE, Louisiana (November 3, 2009) – As fires ravaged the homes of six families from East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Livingston, Pointe Coupee, St. Helena parishes this weekend, the American Red Cross Disaster Action Team (DAT) volunteers were there to lend a helping hand to all individuals involved—providing immediate emergency needs to these families, all for free.

DAT volunteers worked throughout the weekend to help each family on a case-by-case basis, providing assistance toward emergency shelter, food, clothing and mental health services. Clients were provided comfort kits, which include personal hygiene items. Eleven adults and nine children were assisted through community donations; each child also received donated Mickey Mouse stuffed animals for comfort.

“While fires are the most common disaster for the Red Cross, we simply cannot continue to provide services without the generosity of the American people,” said Bobbi Zaunbrecher, new CEO for the local American Red Cross. “The American Red Cross is not a government agency, and while fire victims need assistance for basic needs such as shelter, food, and clothing, the financial contributions and voluntary time must continue. It’s neighbor helping neighbor.”

The mission of the American Red Cross is to help people prevent, prepare for and respond to life emergencies. Volunteers responded to more than 340 incidents in the 10-parish area last year. To donate your time as a DAT volunteer or your financial contribution, log on to www.batonrouge.redcross.org or call (225) 291-4533.