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ROBIN ERICKSON Director of Communications
PHONE (401) 831-7700 x101 E-MAIL [email protected]
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Friday, November 22, 2002 American Red Cross of Rhode Island Responds to
Two Fires Last Night -- Families in Bristol and Providence Assisted
American Red Cross of Rhode Island disaster volunteers had a busy evening on Thursday, with
back-to-back fires in Providence and Bristol.
Red Cross volunteers provided lodging and meals to five adults at 169 Waterman
Street on Providence's East Side. The Red Cross was called to the fire, at the multi-unit dwelling, after 10pm last evening. Those victims are meeting with caseworkers today.
Shortly after, another Red Cross volunteer team was activated for a fire at 401
Metacom Avenue in Bristol, where two families were evacuated from a two-story structure. One family stayed with relatives. A second family --- two adults and two
children --- were provided with hotel accommodations and meals, courtesy of the American Red Cross.
These fires mark the 131st and 132nd incidents, respectively, that Red Cross volunteers have responded to this year.
In 2001, the American Red Cross of Rhode Island assisted 379 Rhode Island families,
who were victims of fires, spending over $200,000.00 in emergency services.
The Red Cross typically spends $1,000 per family of four it assists. All Red Cross
assistance is free. The Red Cross is not a government agency and relies on private donations to provide emergency assistance to Rhode Islanders in crisis.
To make a contribution, call 401.831.7700 or visit www.riredcross.org today.
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