In the wake of a devastating apartment building fire in New Orleans East, the American Red Cross Louisiana Region has mobilized to provide emergency shelter, nourishment, and financial assistance to 13 families, totaling 31 individuals, who were displaced by the blaze.

The Rosenwald Recreation Center was made available to displaced residents, serving as both a shelter for those affected by the fire, and a warming center for community members escaping dangerously cold temperatures. Red Cross volunteers were on-site providing warm meals, snacks, and a safe environment for those who lost their homes.

“Our hearts go out to these 31 neighbors who have experienced such a profound loss, especially while our city faces these extremely cold temperatures,” said Kenneth St. Charles, Ph.D., Regional CEO of the American Red Cross Louisiana Region. “Our mission is to ensure no one faces these emergencies alone, providing the immediate relief and emotional support necessary to start the recovery process.”

During the response, Red Cross volunteers met individually with each of the 13 families. The Red Cross provided emergency financial assistance to help cover immediate needs such as food, clothing, and essential personal items. Families were also given referrals to partner organizations that can lend a hand in the long-term recovery process.

New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno stopped by the Rosenwald Recreation Center to check on residents escaping the cold and to visit with the families affected by the fire. Mayor Moreno thanked the volunteers working to keep the community safe and warm during this multi-layered emergency.

This response comes as Red Cross volunteers have already been working for over a week to prepare for and respond to the severe winter weather across the state. Despite the ongoing demands of the weather mission, these volunteer disaster responders stepped up immediately to serve those impacted by this fire.

The Red Cross encourages any residents in need of a warm place to stay or disaster assistance to dial 211 for the latest information on available warming centers and resources.

How to Help: Disasters like home fires happen every day. You can help people affected by disasters and countless other crises by making a donation to support Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to, and help people recover from disasters big and small. Visit redcross.org/louisiana to learn more.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org.