A fire on November 9 destroyed a 20-unit apartment building on Randolph Avenue in St. Paul, leaving dozens of residents displaced and without the opportunity to recover any of their belongings. The building was deemed unsafe following the fire and was demolished the next day, forcing families to begin rebuilding their lives after losing their homes, treasured possessions and memories.
The American Red Cross is helping residents from the apartment building with immediate disaster relief, including emergency financial assistance for essentials such as food, clothing and temporary lodging. Red Cross volunteers are also providing health services and emotional support, helping people cope with the stress and uncertainty that often follows a home fire.
Among those receiving assistance is Maddy, who moved into the apartment building with her cat, Colin, last March. When the fire started, both Maddy and Colin were able to get out of the building safely.
Despite the devastation, she says the experience has created community among those who lost their homes. “The fire brought the residents together. We have a group text and we’re going to dinner together tonight.”
Maddy, who works in the medical field and is passionate about photography, lost her camera equipment in the fire. While she says those items can be replaced, the loss of treasured keepsakes and one-of-a-kind mementos has been much harder to accept.
Home fires can be life-changing events, and the Red Cross works alongside individuals and families to address both urgent needs and longer-term recovery. The Red Cross also works closely connecting affected residents with community partners like the Salvation Army and neighborhood groups to provide a broad array of resources. From replacing necessities and offering emotional care, the Red Cross helps ensure families have support as they take their first steps toward recovery after disaster.
When the worst happened, trained Red Cross workers quickly connect with people to help them get back on their feet. Put on a red vest and join us at RedCross.org/GiveTime.
