[PITTSBURGH, Friday, October 7, 2022] — The American Red Cross is continuing to support residents of Highlands Apartments at Chapel Hill following a 6-alarm fire that has displaced residents from all homes within the 80-unit building. 

Allegheny County emergency officials requested Red Cross assistance to the 5900 Block of Babcock Boulevard in Pittsburgh at approximately 9p.m. Friday, October 6, 2022, as multiple agencies worked to control the fire. A Disaster Action Team from the Southwestern Pennsylvania Chapter arrived on scene and established a temporary evacuation center at nearby Christ Episcopal Church for residents to gather. 

In coordination with local officials, Red Cross teams connected with displaced residents there to determine needs and next steps. 18 adults and 1 child were provided with resources to secure shelter, clothing, and food as well as other emergent needs. 

The temporary evacuation center was closed by 2a.m. as residents dispersed to their overnight accommodations. Support for these residents will be ongoing and extend beyond providing for immediate needs. The Red Cross will work with all individuals to support them in their next steps including casework, recovery planning, and connection to local organizations and support systems as early as next week. 

Red Cross teams are also working in coordination with local and county officials to identify and connect with other Highlands Apartments residents who have not yet met with the Red Cross. 

Anyone in need of assistance should call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). 

Follow us on Twitter @RedCrossGPA for updates. 

About the American Red Cross:The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.