Red Cross Shelter for Fire Victims at Council of Aging

Update 6:03 p.m. on Oct. 23

American Red Cross Communications Director Kat Powers said in a release The American Red Cross is opening a shelter at 61 Center Street, Burlington, at the Burlington Council on Aging, for those displaced in Wednesday night's apartment fire at 8 Baron Park Lane. 

Residents will find Red Cross volunteers able to offer food, emergency funds as needed, and what they call “casework support” where those burned out by the fire can take next steps in their recovery.

"There are still 12 families who have not sought assistance from the American Red Cross," Powers said. "Please share the information about the shelter and our 24-hour line, 800-564-1234, for those still needing aid." 

Update, 5:07 p.m. on Oct. 23

American Red Cross Communications Director Kat Powers told Patch that the Red Cross is looking to set up a shelter for those displaced in Wednesday night's apartment fire on Baron Park Lane. 

Also, anyone who needs assistance can call (800) 564-1234. Updates on the shelter location will also be found at this number. 

Burlington Patch will also post the location of the shelter when it becomes available. 

Original story: 

Red Cross crews are on scene on Baron Park Lane to assist occupants of the apartment building that was the scene of a 3-alarm fire Wednesday night.

American Red Cross Communications Director Kat Powers said that at about 10 p.m. last night the organization received a call with a request for assistance and were on scene 45 minutes later. Crew members provided emergency food funds to those displaced residents and helped provide shelter to those who didn't have any place to go. 

Today the Red Cross has a truck on Baron Park Lane to offer further assistance, Powers said. 

"Anyone who needs assistance can go there," Powers said. "We have case workers on site." 

Assistance includes commodities such as toothbrushes, funds for clothing and other necessities. Case workers will also help people fill prescriptions and get medications if needed. They also have smoke packs, very strong detergents that will remove the smell of smoke from clothes and linens. 

The Red Cross will also be helping people find shelter, Powers said. Burlington Fire Department Michael Patterson said it is unlikely occupants will be able to go back into the apartment today.