The American Red Cross is helping more than two dozen families after a large fire in Mandan, ND. The fire happened at the Sunset Bluffs apartment complex on Sunday, July 14, and emergency officials worked to put out the flames in 90-plus degree heat and humidity.
The Red Cross met with individuals and families affected by the fire to offer financial assistance, connect them with a volunteer caseworker to help create a recovery plan, and get folks in touch with other organizations in the community who can help. In all, the Red Cross provided assistance to 51 adults and 32 children who were impacted by this devastating fire.
A temporary evacuation center was set up at the Mandan Middle School on Sunday afternoon. Red Cross volunteers were there to help. People affected by the fire came for a safe place to stay, bottled water, and to get out of the heat. Be A Good Neighbor provided funding to get individuals and families hotel rooms for Sunday night.
When a disaster of this magnitude strikes unexpectedly, no one organization can do it all. The Red Cross is thankful that we were able to play a part in helping so many people recover from this fire. We are also thankful to be part of a community that came together to support its neighbors in such a big way.
How to Help
We know that people are generous and want to do everything they can to help. The first priority for the Red Cross is to provide shelter and support to those affected. In disasters such as the fire in Mandan, the Red Cross meets with each individual and family to assess their needs and offer financial assistance.
Before collecting or dropping off donations of clothing or household items, please call the organization to see if these items are needed. The Red Cross might accept large, bulk donations of new items if they fit the needs of people affected.
Financial Donations
Your financial donations are key because they fund nearly 100 percent of our disaster relief activities. A donation to American Red Cross Disaster Relief helps communities prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters big and small. This includes providing food, shelter, relief supplies, emotional support, recovery planning and other assistance, as well as supporting the vehicles, warehouses and people that make this help possible.
If you've been affected by a disaster and need assistance,
call our 24-hour disaster relief hotline at 1-844-29CROSS (1-844-292-7677).