CHARLESTON, S.C. February 7, 2022 – Disaster-trained volunteers with the American Red Cross are responding to an apartment fire that occurred early this morning at The Palms Apartments, 311 Royal Palm Blvd, in Charleston. Approximately 56 units at the apartment complex were majorly damaged or destroyed by the fire. The number of people may change, currently the Red Cross has assisted at least 72 people following the fire by providing the affected families with financial assistance for immediate needs like shelter, food, and clothes. In addition to immediate needs, Red Cross team members are providing virtual mental and spiritual care assistance to anyone that may need it.
As of 6 pm Monday evening, a reception site established at the Masonic Lodge has closed and an American Red Cross-managed shelter has been opened at Westminster Presbyterian Church 1157 Sam Rittenberg Blvd in Charleston for displaced residents. Partner organizations will support feeding needs at the shelter, and an American Red Cross Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV) is on-site with meals, snacks, and hydration.
Based on impact assessment, seven buildings of eight units each sustained major or destroyed status damage, residents of these units are the focus for intake and recovery services. Four additional buildings have been temporarily vacated due to power issues which will hopefully be resolved tomorrow (2/8/22). The shelter is open for those residents and any from the other buildings impacted.
HOW TO HELP: The American Red Cross of South Carolina responds to six home fires every day on average, and in many cases, the families impacted lose everything. Help families get back on their feet by giving the gift of a second chance. Gifts from local “Hometown Heroes” provide financial assistance so families can pay for their immediate needs such as food, clothes, personal care items, and a safe place to stay. Become a Hometown Hero by clicking here or visiting www.redcross.org/HometownHero.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation’s blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization – not a government agency – and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit www.redcross.org/SC or @RedCrossSC
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