By: Megan Lykins and staff
In the early morning hours one day in October, a single-family fire on the edge of Tyler took the life of a resident leaving their brother and another roommate forever changed. The American Red Cross was called out to a one-story home fire in Smith County.
After being discharged from the hospital, the Red Cross provided the surviving sibling and roommate with emotional support, food, water and hygiene items. The surviving residents had strong neighborly ties allowing them to move in with a neighbor while continuing to recover from injuries. After making an initial assessment, Red Cross volunteers provided financial assistance, helping them begin their journey to recovery. In addition to direct disaster financial assistance, the Red Cross provided additional funds to help with funeral expenses.
“The level of family and neighbor comradery and support found in this Tyler area community was outstanding” said Megan Lykins, the Red Cross disaster program manager for Smith County. “Even after losing a sibling the survivor was so genuinely grateful for the help and care that he received, it was heartwarming and memorable.”
The City of Tyler, Smith County, Noonday and Flint fire departments responded in an effort to save life and protect property that night. They successfully contained the fire, but one home was completely destroyed by the blaze.
During the long-term recovery phase, the Red Cross was able to provide additional resources, including developing a plan for the next steps in recovery and worked with partner organizations to provide further recovery assistance. The Red Cross also replaced medications and prescription glasses and donated a walker for the resident to walk around safely. Additionally, the impacted residents were able to speak with Red Cross-affiliated mental health counselors to work through the grief of losing his relative.
Those impacted by home fires should contact the American Red Cross at 800-733-2767.