BANGOR – The Pine Tree Chapter of the American Red Cross responded to seven house and apartment fires in the region over a 15-day period from the middle to the end of November. The fires have displaced seven families totaling 28 people, of which 14 are children. Emergency and disaster relief volunteers are working with the families and individuals to help provide immediate assistance.

Emergency relief in the form of food, clothing, and shelter has been provided to those families and individuals in need of assistance following their devastating loss. The Red Cross will continue to work with the families as immediate needs arise.

The holiday season is always one of the most trying times of year for the local American Red Cross Chapter. The number of disasters and other emergencies responded to will increase dramatically over the next few months. American Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from the people of Eastern and Northern Maine.

The Pine Tree Chapter of the American Red Cross encourages citizens to consider making a donation at this busy time of year. By making a donation to the local disaster relief fund contributors know they’ve done something special to help the Pine Tree Chapter of the American Red Cross office be ready to respond to emergencies each time their services are needed.

To help the victims of the recent fires and those of other disasters, contributions may be made to the Pine Tree Chapter of the American Red Cross, 33 Mildred Ave., Bangor 04401, or by calling 941-2903.