Christmas Fire Displaces 11 Families: How You Can Help

YONKERS, NY — A Christmas Day fire that resulted in injuries to more than a dozen firefighters was brought under control before it could spread to adjacent buildings, but 11 families are still struggling after losing everything.

Remarkably, there were no serious injuries reported once the smoke dissipated, but officials with the American Red Cross Metro New York North said the blaze left 11 families, including 27 adults and eight children, facing a difficult start to the new year.

The Red Cross almost immediately opened a reception center at St Andrew's Church. Volunteers handed out comfort items, blankets, hot food and beverages. Red Cross Teams provided money for families to relocate, basic necessities and comfort.

Because many stores were closed for Christmas, volunteers put a call out for diapers and other essential items and the community came through, sacrificing their holiday plans to drop off needed items at St Andrew's.

On Sunday, after thanking firefighters for bringing the general alarm Elliott Avenue fire to heel, Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano asked the community to support their neighbors who faced disaster this Christmas. Spano asked for donations of any of the following supplies to Saint Andrew's Church (Iglesia Episcopal San Andres), 22 Post Street:

• Baby diapers, specifically sizes 5 & 6.
• Men & Women Undergarments All Sizes
• Girls Undergarments Sizes 8, 3T, & 4T
• Boys Undergarments Sizes 5 & 6
• Toothbrushes
• Toothpaste
• Feminine Hygiene Products
• Baby Wipes
• Soap
• Shampoo & Conditioner
• Towels

Now, in some respects, the needs have changed. Blood donors are always in demand during a time of crisis, and Red Cross officials are reminding those who want to help their neighbors that the organization depends on volunteers and that financial contributions can always be put to good use during an emergency.

The Red Cross Metro NY Casework team, known as the "anchors in the storm," are following up with the families providing further assistance and emotional support.

The cause of the Christmas Day fire remains under investigation.

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission.

For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit them on Twitter at @redcrossny.