Since Monday, May 15, the American Red Cross has operated an emergency shelter at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in downtown Pittsburgh to house those displaced by Monday’s Midtown Towers Apartment Building fire. As of today, housing has been secured for the individuals who remained at the shelter, and the facility will be closed.

At the onset of the incident, roughly 55 people from the 94-unit structure were assisted by Red Cross Disaster Action Team members in the lobby of the K&L Gates Building, before being bused to the Convention Center. Red Cross shelter team members have worked with those displaced since Monday morning, ensuring them a safe place to stay, food, clothing, and assistance with health and mental health needs. Roughly two dozen individuals were housed at the Convention Center each night.

Now, with our shelter operation coming to an end, Red Cross case workers will follow-up with those impacted to assess any additional needs, offer assistance when possible, and provide referrals as needed to partner agencies.

The American Red Cross would like to thank all those who assisted with this effort, including the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire and all Pittsburgh Public Safety Departments, Pittsburgh Department of Human Services, The David L. Lawrence Convention Center, LEVY, Walnut Grill in Pittsburgh, McDonalds on Wood Street, and the Salvation Army.

All American Red Cross disaster assistance is provided free of charge and is made possible by the voluntary donations of time and money from caring individuals and, in part, by contributions given through the United Way. You can help people affected by disasters big and small by making a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to learn more.