Columbia, S.C. February 3, 2026 - American Red Cross disaster-trained volunteers are assisting multiple families whose homes, located at the Broad River Trace Apartments on River Hill Circle in Columbia, were damaged by a fires yesterday afternoon. The Red Cross is helping at least 32 residents by providing financial assistance for immediate needs such as food, clothing, and shelter, along with referrals to much needed resources.  

“As our teams work with the families impacted, our hearts go out to them, and we want to provide as much support as possible,” said Susan Everitt, CEO of the Red Cross of South Carolina. “This devastating event reminds us that fires can happen anywhere, at any time, and we must always be prepared for these all-too-common disasters. We encourage families to practice their home fire safety plan and test their smoke alarms.” 

In addition to immediate needs, Red Cross team members are providing mental and spiritual care assistance to anyone who may need it. The Red Cross will continue to stay in contact with its partners to see if any additional assistance is needed.   

DISASTER ACTION TEAM VOLUNTEERS NEEDED The American Red Cross of South Carolina needs the community's help to respond to our neighbors in need. More than 2,900 people volunteer with the Red Cross throughout the state. These volunteers answer the call in the middle of the night to comfort a family down the street impacted by a home fire. You can make a difference by turning tragedy into hope. Visit redcross.org/volunteertoday to get started today.  

HOW TO HELP Help people affected by disasters, like home fires, and countless other crises by making a gift to American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small.  People can donate by visiting redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED-CROSS, or texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.  

About the American Red Cross:   
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent 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 follow us on Twitter at @RedCross.