(July 31, 2005) – The American Red Cross, Illinois Capital Area Chapter responded to a fire this evening at 1128 E. Enos in Springfield. The Disaster Action Team (DAT) was dispatched to care for three adults and three children who were displaced by the fire.
Casework interviewers from the Red Cross met with the family members to discuss and identify immediate needs resulting from the fire. The American Red Cross will provide food, shelter and replacement medications for the family.
The Illinois Capital Area Chapter responds to a disaster every three days somewhere in our community. On average, each fiscal year the Red Cross responds to more than 90 disaster incidents, providing more than $100,000 in direct relief to families.
Members of the DAT are volunteers with the Illinois Capital Area Chapter, specially trained in various
aspects of disaster response, including casework interviews, damage assessment, shelter and feeding, health services, and mental health crisis counseling. DAT members also have the full support of chapter for additional personnel and resources if needed.
“We feel good knowing that we will make a difference in the lives of those affected today; however, it is the community who makes what we do possible,” said Jenny Antonacci, Community Relations Coordinator for the Illinois Capital Area Chapter. “By supporting our Local Disaster Relief Fund, people can give the greatest gift of all...hope.”
All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and
money from the American people. To help the Red Cross continue to save lives, contributions can be made to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund by calling 522-3357. Contributions to the Disaster Relief Fund may also be sent to the Illinois Capital Area Chapter P.O. Box 1058, 1025 South Sixth Street, Springfield, IL 62705-1058.
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Contact: Jenny Antonacci
Community Relations Coordinator
Office: (217) 522-3357 x232
Illinois Capital Area Chapter, 1045 Outer Park Dr., Springfield, IL 62704 / Phone: (217) 787-7602 / Fax: (217) 787-7952 / springfield@il-redcross.org
