Every eight minutes, the American Red Cross responds to a disaster. The vast majority are home fires, which can rob families of their homes, belongings and, too often, their lives. For more than 50 years, the Red Cross has provided home fire survivors with shelter, meals, recovery assistance and-perhaps most importantly-hope. During 2024 , the American Red Cross Central and Western Nebraska Chapter has responded to 120 events, worked on 137 cases and assisted 369 individuals and distributed a total of $96,520 in financial assistance. This is an average of $705 given in assistance. Home Fires Don't Impact Everyone Equally When facing an unexpected $400 expense, nearly 40% of U.S. adults either couldn't pay for it or would borrow money or sell something to do so. Home fire recovery usually costs over $400, and many low-income families can't turn to insurance for help. Of renters who make under $30,000, 75% lack renters' insurance. While the Red Cross helps everyone equally, we know that low-income people need us most. Giving to the American Red Cross Central and Western Nebraska Chapter can help save lives and restore normalcy for families.