The American Red Cross in Greater New York's Rockland/Putnam Chapter had a particularly busy week responding to disasters throughout the two counties. Following are some of the incidents at which Red Cross responders offered assistance:

January 25 South Nyack: Cedar Hill Avenue Fire
The Red Cross disaster services staff came to the scene of the fire to provide assistance to the eight individuals that were affected. Staff members spoke with each person to explain our free services to them.

January 26 Monsey / Spring Valley: Fletcher Road Fire
Opening a shelter for 200 or more persons was averted, but the Red Cross was on the scene ready to begin shelter operations. Five families received Red Cross assistance as they were directly affected by the fire. We provided vouchers to get housing, food, and clothing to Rockland businesses. The Red Cross will pay for the goods and services used at these merchants.

January 27 Pearl River: Funeral of Firefighter John Bellew
The American Red Cross positioned two canteens along Central Avenue from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m., where 17 volunteers and five employees distributed complimentary snacks and hot drinks to support the 10,000 people who came to pay their respects. More than 120 gallons of hot chocolate and coffee were handed out as the temperature was well below freezing. Five Red Cross mental health volunteers were also present to talk to mourners.

January 27 Haverstraw: Middle Street
At 10:30 p.m. at the end of a cold, long day, Red Cross disaster services staff responded to help a family of two adults and two children who had received an order to vacate because of structural damage. They received vouchers for temporary housing and food.

January 30 Pomona: Route 202
Flooding affected a family of two adults and one child. They inquired with the Red Cross about the possibility of assistance if they received an order to vacate their apartment.

January 31 Garnerville: Alice Street
A family escaped a house fire in their pajamas. Red Cross disaster services provided the family of four adults and four children with food and clothing vouchers. While the family was able to stay at a friend’s place, it is too small and it is likely that the Red Cross will provide housing soon.

February 1 Carmel: Route 6
An extended family of nine adults lost all their possessions in a house fire that burned everything to the ground. Red Cross DAT members responded to provide the individuals with vouchers for a place to stay, food and clothing.