Comforting Neighbors in Crisis

In the early morning hours of January 10, 2006, Michelle Murphy and her family lost nearly everything when a fire destroyed their home in south Minneapolis. They escaped with only the clothes on their backs - for Michelle that was a t-shirt, boxer shorts and sandals. Her 3-month-old granddaughter Amiya was whisked out in just her pajamas and a blanket.

Michelle recalls the Red Cross volunteers who gave her a shoulder to lean on and a Red Cross "comfort kit," filled with the basic necessities - such as soap, a toothbrush and toothpaste,

"You never realize how important the little things are until you lose everything."

Every year, volunteers with the Twin Cities Area Red Cross respond to nearly 350 local disasters - from house fires like Michelle's to tornadoes in Rogers. Thanks to generous donations from our community, we are able to provide comfort to our neighbors affected by disasters by providing food, clothing, shelter and emotional support when they need it most.

In addtion to responding to disasters, we also help our community prevent and prepare for emergencies. Learn how to stay safe with Red Cross safety tips and Red Cross Health & Safety Classes.

Photo Courtesy of the Rogers Fire Department.