Joan A. Foley, director of the American Red Cross in Greater New York – Queens, and New York City Councilmember James. F. Gennaro talk with a few of the residents of the Frank Parlamis Senior Center who learned about becoming prepared for emergencies. (Photo: Office of NYC Councilmember James F. Gennaro)

What should be done after an emergency stirs up concern at a senior center? With the support of New York City Councilmember James F. Gennaro, the American Red Cross in Greater New York-Queens delivered a program (Ready New York) that was adapted specifically for senior residents at the center to help them prevent, prepare for and respond to future emergencies. Ready New York teaches New York City residents how to create a plan, build a supply kit, and keep loved ones safe and informed during times of disaster.

On Monday, September 18, at the Frank Parlamis Senior Center of St. Demetrious Greek Orthodox Church (83-12A Parsons Boulevard, Jamaica), preparedness experts from the Red Cross eased residents' fears about emergencies and helped them understand the steps they should take to protect themselves and others during a fire, power outage, or other emergency.

On August 19, a fire started in the kitchen of a second floor apartment at the center. The facility sustained fire and water damage, and the Red Cross provided temporary shelter and financial assistance to residents.

"An incident occurred and we were available to help the residents immediately,” said Joan Foley, director, the American Red Cross in Greater New York-Queens. “From this comes an excellent lesson for all of us. Whether you live in a senior center, apartment building, or private house, or whether you work or attend school, you need to be prepared for an emergency before it happens. If you are better prepared, you will know what to do, how to protect yourself and those around you.”