The San Diego/Imperial Counties Red Cross Assists Those Affected by Disasters

(Mission Times Courier, San Diego, CA) - The San Diego/Imperial Counties Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to five disasters in the past week.

Fires caused major damage and destruction to several single-family homes in Lakeside, Chula Vista, and El Cajon. Fire also destroyed a mobile home in Imperial Valley affecting two adults, and destroyed a 4-unit condo structure in Escondido affecting five adults and five children. The disasters caused loss of property and the devastation left adults, children and pets homeless.

The American Red Cross assisted by providing lodging, transportation, groceries, snacks and hydration, comfort kits, medication, clothing and shoes to those affected. The Red Cross also provided blankets and more including teddy bears to ease the horror of the disaster to the children affected.

The American Red Cross urges the community to become prepared for disaster. Disasters can be avoided by taking extra safety measures and being prepared drastically reduces the possibility of personal harm in the event of a disaster. The Red Cross recommends that all members of the community Get a Kit, Make a Plan and Be Informed. For more information on building a Preparedness Kit, formulating an escape plan and staying informed, you can visit www.PrepareSanDiego.Org to learn how to prepare yourself and your loved ones.

The American Red Cross is dedicated to assisting those affected by disasters. Trained Red Cross volunteers and staff are on call round-the-clock and are ready to assist in various aspects including disaster assessment, casework, shelter, feeding and more. The San Diego/Imperial Counties Chapter responds to a disaster every 24 hours.

About the American Red Cross San Diego and Imperial Counties Chapter
The San Diego/Imperial Counties Chapter of the American Red Cross is leading the effort to make San Diego and Imperial Valley Counties “America’s Most Prepared Community.” As a charitable organization and not a government agency, the Red Cross depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. The Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation's blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The local chapter also provides nutritional counseling through the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) program. For more information, please call (858) 309-1200 or visit www.sdarc.org.