Portland, Maine, May 26, 2009 - The American Red Cross was on the scene of an apartment fire in Portland on Monday evening. Six volunteers responded, assisting those affected by the fire with shelter, food and mental health support.

The Southern Maine Chapter of the American Red Cross provided support to fifteen individuals.

"We have a great team of volunteers who are ready to respond at any time," said Mike Mason, Regional Director of Emergency Services. "We want to be sure people have a place to stay, food to eat, clothes to wear and the mental health support that they need following a disaster."

The Red Cross will continue to work with those affected to be sure that all immediate, disaster caused needs are met.

The American Red Cross is where people mobilize to help their neighbors in emergencies-across the street, across the country and across the world.  The Red Cross is not a government agency; it relies on donations of time, money, and blood to do its work. To Support what we do locally, donations can be made online at http://www.southernmaine.redcross.org/ or by calling 874-1192.

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