CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) – In the past week, Red Cross volunteers in Illinois provided crucial assistance to 27 people impacted by six separate home fires in Kilbourne, Peoria, Champaign, Paxton, Danville, and Paris. The volunteers offered a wide range of support, including emergency financial aid, food, relief items like toiletries, and health and mental health services. They also connected those affected by the fires with available recovery resources.
Kellie O’Connell, CEO of Illinois Red Cross, expressed sympathy for the individuals and families affected, stating, “Our hearts go out to our neighbors who were impacted by these fires. 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.”
To help prevent future tragedies, the Red Cross offers safety resources and tips at redcross.org/fire. Additionally, individuals can download the free Red Cross Emergency App for more guidance on emergency preparedness.
As part of the Red Cross’s ongoing efforts, Giving Day on March 26 provides an opportunity for the community to support disaster relief efforts. In the first 50 days of 2025 alone, Red Cross volunteers have responded to more large-scale disasters than days, including nine major disaster responses across the region. The need for support has never been greater, with many people relying on the Red Cross during times of crisis.
How You Can Help:
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Donate: Your contributions help those affected by disasters, large and small. Donations can be made at redcross.org or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.
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Volunteer: With volunteers representing 90% of the workforce, you can help by signing up at RedCross.org/Volunteer.
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Prepare: Visit RedCross.org to access disaster preparedness action plans for yourself and your family.