ANCHORAGE, Feb. 15, 2017 -- The American Red Cross of Alaska continues to feed and shelter Anchorage residents left homeless by a structure fire in the Spenard neighborhood. The Red Cross of Alaska opened a shelter at the Spenard Community Recreation Center Wednesday morning to approximately 50 individuals, and the Red Cross is prepared to shelter and feed all those directly affected by the disaster in the upcoming days.
Our immediate goal is to provide a source of comfort, shelter and food to our those who have been displaced. As many as 10 Red Cross volunteers were on scene at the fire and the Spenard Rec Center shelter Wednesday, responding early morning to the call for assistance.
Through the support of the community, we were able to provide snacks and meals to those in the shelter. Red Robin delivered lunch Wednesday afternoon, Sam’s Club provided snacks, and the Salvation Army is partnering with the Red Cross to serve additional meals.
We have seen an outpour of support,” said Red Cross of Alaska CEO, Tanguy Libbrecht. “From local businesses calling to offer snacks and meals, to messages and phone calls from members of the community looking to help, we are forever grateful for the support in fulfilling our mission to alleviate suffering.”
Recovery
When the immediate emergency is over, the healing can begin. Our Red Cross Caseworker volunteers will guide individuals through the recovery process. Every case is different and we tailor assistance to individual needs. For example- helping individuals replace prescription medicines, essential health supplies, identification cards, eyeglasses, etc.
Within the next 48 hours the Red Cross will set up a disaster assistance center at Spenard Rec Center where we will work with Southcentral Foundation and the office of the Governor to assist homeless families in transition. Will help them through the recovery process, providing financial assistance for food, clothing and housing.
How to Help
We are thankful to those who would like to donate items for people– however, the Red Cross is not equipped to manage, support, and distribute donated items. Instead, our priority is to get those affected settled at our emergency shelter, and to provide supplies to meet immediate needs. Right now, the best way to help is through a financial donation. You can visit redcross.org/Alaska to make a donation online or call the Anchorage office at 907-646-5401. All donations stay within the Red Cross of Alaska.
Source: American Red Cross of Alaska
