FORT COLLINS, Colo. (Aug. 25, 2025) – On Aug. 23, 2025, the Murphy Center for Hope in Fort Collins, which provides transitional housing for individuals experiencing homelessness, was evacuated due to a fire that displaced all of its residents. In response, more than a dozen volunteers from the American Red Cross of Northern Colorado mobilized to provide emergency assistance. 

A temporary shelter was quickly established at Foothills Unitarian Church, also in Fort Collins, offering refuge to more than 45 people who had nowhere else to go. Red Cross volunteers provided comfort, warm meals, and a safe place to stay, ensuring that everyone impacted had the support they needed during the crisis. 

After two nights, the emergency shelter was closed early this morning as the Murphy Center was able to safely resume operations. 

Most people don't realize that they may have as little as two minutes to escape a fire in their home. That's why, no matter where you sleep at night, it's critical to ensure there are working smoke alarms that can alert you in time to save your life. 

Test your smoke alarms every month and replace the batteries at least twice a year. This simple habit can make the difference between life and death — because smoke alarms save lives. 

Learn more about how to keep your home safe by visiting www.redcross.org/sound-the-alarm.

About the American Red Cross: 

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds, and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information and photos, please visit https://redcross.org/colorado or follow us on social media.