In the past week, Red Cross volunteers helped eight people affected by two fires in Chadwick and Genoa.

The Red Cross provided emergency financial assistance, food, relief items like toiletries, health and mental health services, and one-on-one support to connect people to available recovery assistance. So far this year, local Red Cross volunteers have helped hundreds of people affected by home fires in our community.

“Our hearts go out to our neighbors who were impacted by these fires,” said Kellie O’Connell, CEO, Illinois Red Cross. “Because these disasters can happen anytime, anywhere, please help stay safe by testing your smoke alarms each month and practicing your home fire escape plan until everyone in your household can escape in two minutes or less.”

For home fire safety resources and tips, visit redcross.org/fire or download the free Red Cross Emergency App (search “American Red Cross” in app stores or go to redcross.org/apps).

RED CROSS GIVING DAY - MARCH 26 During the first 50 days of 2025, Red Cross volunteers responded to more big disasters in the U.S. than days — including 9 large-scale disaster responses across the region which included providing shelter, food and supplies, emotional support, financial assistance, health services, disaster and spiritual care services. And that’s on top of everyday crises like home fires that have upended lives across the region. Meanwhile, more Red Cross blood donations have gone uncollected so far this year due to weather than throughout all of 2024.

This year’s disasters have set a whirlwind pace, displacing thousands of people from their homes across the country. As we enter spring disaster season, families are relying on the Red Cross to come together as a community and support them when help can’t wait during future crises.

The need to help during disasters has never been greater. Join us to provide relief and hope when it matters most.

• DONATE: Help people affected by disasters big and small, including climate-driven crises, by making a gift to Red Cross Disaster Relief at redcross.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767).
• VOLUNTEER: Our volunteers are at the heart of our mission and represent 90% of our workforce. Visit RedCross.org/Volunteer to sign up for opportunities with your local chapter.
• PREPARE: Take steps to protect yourself and your family from extreme weather events. Visit RedCross.org to access Disaster Preparedness Action Plans.

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 follow us on social media.

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