Most people don’t realize that home fires are the most common disaster in the United States. But at the American Red Cross in Southeastern Wisconsin, we don’t just recognize that fact, we react to it. When a fire call comes in, members of the Disaster Action Team grab their fire gear and head out the door. Once on scene, they go to those who have been affected and begin the process of recovery, finding out what the family members need for that day and the next…food? Shelter? Medication? Hope?

Last year, this scenario played out more than 400 times. In January and February, members of the DAT responded to more than 100 fires.

That’s why we need your help. The Red Cross needs funding to provide its relief services to families affected by home fires, so that we can ensure that families have a safe place to sleep, warm meal to eat and caring individuals to offer emotional support.  We can’t do this without your assistance.

You can help the victims of local disasters by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross in Southeastern Wisconsin, which enables the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance. Contributions may be sent to American Red Cross, Box 88711, Milwaukee, WI  53208-0711. Internet users can make a secure online contribution. All American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the American people.