In 2002 in Central Florida, more than 1,800 families received emergency aid after local disasters, 92% of which were home fires. One of those was the Kimball family of Oviedo.
On September 13, Les and Diane Kimball experienced the unthinkable -- a horrific home fire. Les recalls the moment of that night that changed his family's life in this video story.
Red Cross volunteers from the Greater Orlando Chapter’s Disaster Action Team (DAT) responded to assist the family. This group of specially trained volunteers respond to the scene of a local disaster when called upon at any time – day or night, 365 days a year. They provide emotional support – to ensure that no family or individual has to go through such a devastating event alone – and financial assistance for urgent needs (typically emergency lodging, food, water or clothing). Additionally, volunteer caseworkers follow up with families in the weeks following to help navigate the recovery process and connect survivors to other community resources.
Red Cross disaster assistance is free of charge, a gift made possible by donations. Learn more about our work helping people prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters big and small at redcross.org.
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