The Northern New England Blog

 By Dan Dowling – regional communication manager When a fast‑moving fire tore through a multi‑unit apartment building on Beech Hill Avenue in Manchester on Friday night, April 17, dozens of residents suddenly found themselves without a home, unsure of what would come next. Within minutes, 12 American Red Cross Disaster Action Team volunteers were on scene, working alongside the Manchester Fire Department to support the roughly 40 people displaced by the blaze. That night, the Red Cross Disaster Action Team provided aid to seven families, including nine adults and three children. Several pets were also displaced in the fire. The families received comfort kits, financial assistance to replace clothing and other immediate needs, and a warm, safe place to spend the night. The next day, a reception center opened near the scene of the fire, offering a private, supportive space for residents to connect with Red Cross caseworkers. There, individuals could access emotional support, ...