Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (Sept. 1, 2024) — The American Red Cross of Southern Nevada has opened an emergency shelter for the over 30 residents displaced by an apartment fire in Northwest Las Vegas this afternoon. The shelter is located at the Mirabelli Community Center, 6200 Hargrove Ave., Las Vegas, NV 89107.
Las Vegas Fire & Rescue responded to a fire at the Bella Solara Apartment complex at 7101 W. Smoke Ranch Rd., between Tenaya Way and Rainbow Boulevard, around 3 p.m. on Sunday. The blaze damaged or destroyed eight apartments, while water damage impacted another eight, resulting in approximately 32 residents being displaced. With all 16 units left without electricity and gas, a shelter has been opened to assist those affected.
Displaced families are receiving essential assistance, including temporary shelter, food, clothing, personal care items, and in some cases, financial support. “Our dedicated volunteers are currently providing emotional support and addressing emergency needs for the families,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “Red Cross caseworkers will continue to work with the families in the coming days and weeks to help them recover and regain stability.”
This year, the Red Cross has responded to more than 225 home fires and assisted nearly 1,000 people in Southern Nevada. Last year, our teams helped over 1,200 residents displaced by nearly 300 home fires.
Supporting your community
Home fires are the nation’s most frequent disaster, often leaving families in urgent need of support. Flanigan emphasized the critical role of the specialized Disaster Action Team volunteers, who are trained to provide emotional comfort, access to financial aid and essential guidance to aid families in their recovery. She added, “The presence of the Red Cross and its volunteers is instrumental in ensuring that displaced locals receive the vital support they need.”
Clark County is in need of additional Disaster Action Team volunteers to ensure a swift response when disasters strike. Once trained, Red Cross disaster volunteers are prepared to respond to local emergencies, like home fires, offering immediate support on-site or remotely. With experience and further training, volunteers can also assist in major emergencies or disasters locally and nationwide. Explore disaster volunteer opportunities at redcross.org/DAT.
“Knowing that someone is there to lend a helping hand during trying times provides a much-needed flicker of hope for our neighbors,” Flanigan said. “Please join us by volunteering to help those in need, ensuring no one in Southern Nevada faces life’s emergencies alone.”
Empowering communities with fire safety
Residents interested in fire prevention assistance can schedule an appointment for free smoke alarm installation at SoundTheAlarm.org/Nevada. During home visits, Red Cross volunteers and community partners provide guidance on home fire safety, prevention strategies and creating evacuation plans for all occupants, including pets.
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, or follow us on social media.
