May 24, 2010 – Fresno, CA     The American Red Cross Central Valley Chapter volunteers have been responding to single family home fires throughout the Central Valley .  Red Cross Volunteers have been called out at least once a day this month to help families in need after a disaster.  All families needed assistance with emergency food and clothing and short tem housing, usually a hotel room.

The American Red Cross volunteers assisted in the following cities: Oakhurst, Los Banos, Merced , Fresno , Clovis and Visalia .  The 114 individuals that were given financial assistance had no place else to turn while recovering from their family disaster.  This assistance for the families was free and only made possible by contributions from the community.  The local American Red Cross does not receive government assistance for disaster relief for families in our community.  

The Central Valley Chapter of the Red Cross responded to 586 fires last year in our community, helping over 3000 individuals.  Since 1917, the American Red Cross Central Valley Chapter has provided assistance in time of local and national disasters.   The chapter’s outreach activities are supported 100% by local community donations.  Outreach includes assistance to displaced individuals and families affected by a natural disaster, support military personnel and their families, community health and safety training.

Those interested in supporting the community’s Save-A- Family campaign can make a tax deduction contribution to the American Red Cross Central Valley Chapter.  These contributions will help our neighbors in a time of need.  American Red Cross disaster assistance is free.  The assistance provided to these families is made possible by local donations to our Save A Family Relief Fund.  Please send your donation to American Red Cross Central Valley Chapter,

When disaster strikes, your local chapter of American Red Cross is there, whether it is a single-family home fire or a major disaster.  American Red Cross disaster assistance is free.  The American Red Cross is not a government agency and does not receive government funding.  The American Red Cross depends on financial contributions from the local community. To help local disaster victims, please call 455-1000 . Internet users may also make a secure online contribution by visiting www.ARCcentralvalley.org.