ISLAND PARK, N.Y., Feb. 29, 2008 - Flames destroyed a Suffolk Road home this morning, and volunteers from the American Red Cross in Nassau County responded to provide assistance.

Upon arriving at the scene, Nassau Red Cross volunteers learned that the home’s two elderly residents were taken to area hospitals. However, the volunteers remained on the frigid scene to provide firefighters with hot chocolate, tea and snacks.

When the residents are discharged from the hospital, the Nassau Red Cross will provide-if needed-temporary shelter and funds for food and clothing, according to Bruce Vesloski, Red Cross volunteer.

All Red Cross disaster assistance is provided at no cost. In just eight months, volunteers from the Nassau Red Cross have responded to 92 local disasters--mainly home fires--and have provided over $110,000 in direct relief to over 500 Nassau residents.

The Nassau Red Cross is able to perform its mission thanks to the generosity of individuals who donate their time or money to the nonprofit agency. To learn how you can help, visit the American Red Cross in Nassau County at 195 Willis Avenue in Mineola, or online at www.nassauredcross.org.

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