As winter approaches and New Jersey experiences colder temperatures, the American Red Cross has responded to more frequent home fires throughout the state.

During the first nine days of December, New Jersey Red Cross Disaster Action Team (DAT) members have responded to 44 home fires, helping nearly 250 people in 112 families with comfort and care. Teams have answered the call to help people affected by home fires in communities like Jersey City, Hackensack, Kearny, Camden, Toms River, Wildwood and others to provide emotional support, emergency assistance and guidance to those who have experienced the worst days of their lives.

One incident on Tuesday, December 3, spurred a multi-day response. An apartment building fire on Inman Street in Edison damaged three apartments and caused utilities to be shut off to two wings of the massive 250-unit building.

Residents were safely evacuated to a senior recreation center, where DAT volunteers arrived to provide help and care, distributing warm blankets and assistance with moving the residents. More than 70 residents were transported to a nearby hotel, where Edison Township provided overnight stays. When it was determined that one section of the apartment building would not be able to return home for several days, the local health department met with the senior residents to assist them in retrieving medications from their apartments.

Working alongside Edison officials, including the Office of Emergency Management and the building’s management, the Red Cross provided support by sharing in the provision of meals, snacks and other immediately needed items.

At this time, some families are still unable to return home, and the management company is providing hotel stays for them. Red Cross volunteer caseworkers met with 19 of the affected families, providing 27 people with emergency financial assistance for things like food, clothing and other immediate needs. The Red Cross also provided additional relief items to residents of the building.

Visit redcross.org/NJHoliday to learn how we helped in New Jersey communities this year and learn how you can give with meaning this holiday season.