Local Red Cross needs your help

Many families have been displaced from their homes, and have lost loved ones, due to several home fires this winter.

The local Red Cross was there to assist families with immediate housing, and then in helping locate clothing, house goods and the many necessities that are lost when a home burns.

Of course, most lost items can never be replaced, but the Red Cross and agencies it coordinates with are there to help families in transition.

Community businesses and individuals have also risen to the occasion in most events, but the Red Cross is the one constant in times of tragedy. Not just home fires, but any event that negatively affects individuals, families or communities.

In December and January, the Red Cross went to five home fires that displaced 15 people. That doesn’t include other services it provides on a daily basis as people come to them with other needs.

It’s a lot of work and you can help.

In the coming months, residents can learn how to help the Red Cross by attending three classes that guide volunteers through basic information about how Red Cross works to working with clients. The classes start in February and run into March. The classes don’t cost a dime, but those interested must pre-register.

Know that volunteering is more than signing up on a roster sheet. Volunteers can be called up any time, day or night, to go to tragedies as Disaster Relief Volunteers. Generally the work isn’t physically demanding like being a firefighter, but it can lead to loss of rest if the phone rings at 3 a.m. And there is the emotional toll of dealing with people who are in distress for a number of reasons, from losing a pet to losing a home or a loved one.

It’s not for everybody, but the Red Cross is looking hard for help because some long-time volunteers are leaving and those voids need to be filled.

Call 357-6060 for more information.

Helping out

The Red Cross has been instrumental in helping a local family that suffered the death of a 9-year-old son and brother in a fire Jan. 7. A 12-year-old boy was injured and the home and contents destroyed.

Several people have called the newspaper wondering how to help. There is an account set up at Wells Fargo to assist the family. Any local branch will be able to help with donations.

Also, Boys and Girls Clubs in the Valley are active in collecting donations of canned food, clothing, bedding, etc. to help the family. The club is at 3700 E. Bogard Road in Wasilla, but during an announcement at the joint chambers of commerce meeting Tuesday, a representative said the club would pick up donations at other locations. The number is 357-2582. Officials there are often working with children, so they may not answer the phone immediately, but should call back with the information donors need. Donations are also being accepted at Goose Bay Boys and Girls Club at Knik Elementary School. That number is 352-0300.