Atlanta, GA (November 14, 2023) — American Red Cross of Georgia staff and volunteers continue to help those impacted by a devastating fire that took place at the Reserve at LaVista Walk apartment complex over the weekend. So far, the Red Cross has helped over 200 people through direct client assistance, recovery planning and emotional support to meet their disaster-caused needs. Red Cross volunteers have also served over 500 meals and snacks to those impacted by the fire.

"As our Red Cross team works with the families impacted, we are thinking about the residents and want to provide all the support we can on their road to recovery," said Terri Badour, Executive Director for the Greater Atlanta Chapter. “We are extremely grateful to our volunteers and community partners for providing care and comfort to those in need. This devasting event also reminds us that fires can happen at any time, and we must always be prepared for such disasters.”

The apartment complex has 283 units which were identified as destroyed or with major damage. The Red Cross will continue to work with families to help them through their next steps, provide additional recovery resources, and help them acclimate to their new normal. All Red Cross disaster assistance is free and made possible through the generosity of the community.  People in need of assistance are asked to call 1-800 Red Cross (1-800-733-2767) or go to redcross.org

HOW TO KEEP YOUR FAMILY SAFE Help protect your family against home fires by taking two simple steps: Practice your two-minute escape drill and test your smoke alarms monthly. Visit SoundTheAlarm.org for more information and to pledge to prepare your family against home fires. 

• Create an escape plan with at least two ways to exit every room in your home. Select a meeting spot at a safe distance away from your home, such as your neighbor's home or landmark like a specific tree in your front yard, where everyone knows to meet. 
• Practice your escape plan until everyone in your household can get out in less than two minutes. 
• Place smoke alarms on each level of your home, including inside and outside bedrooms and sleeping areas. Change the batteries at least once a year if your model requires it. 

HOW TO HELP: The American Red Cross responds to more than 60,000 disasters per year, the majority of which are home fires. Your financial donation to the Red Cross helps provide shelter, meals, relief supplies, emotional support, recovery planning and other assistance during disasters. Visit redcross.org/georgia to help those in need.

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.