L.A. Red Cross Releases 1st QTR Disaster Data

West Los Angeles, California - A newly re-tooled Emergency & Disaster Response Department at the American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles opened more than 135 cases for disaster-stricken families in the first three months of 2008. Between January 1, and March 31, 2008, Red Cross relief workers rushed to aide the more than 430 victims, allocating more than $70,000 in emergency financial assistance for food, clothing, and household items. More than another $97,000 to help the affected families towards recovery with temporary housing and relocation support.

“As a result of this high level of activity in the first quarter, our staff and volunteers are stepping up our operational capacity. And we sincerely hope that this is not a trend that will play out the rest of the year” said Paul Schulz, CEO of the American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles.

The American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles is dedicated to helping make families and communities safer. A volunteer-led humanitarian service organization, the American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles responds to an average of 10 disasters a week in 36 cities, including Los Angeles. The Red Cross provides relief for victims of house and apartment fires, earthquakes, floods, hazardous material spills, transportation accidents, explosions, and other natural or man-made disasters – 24 hours a day. Last year the American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles trained nearly 120,000 people in vital life-saving skills while providing direct health services to more than 100,000 people. Everyday, local Red Cross volunteers strive to make Los Angeles a safer and stronger community for all.

Media Contact:
Nick Samaniego
Office: (310) 445-2653
Cell: (213) 479-0962
email: SamaniegoN@arcla.org

Tags: Data, Figures, First Quarter, Stats