HEMPSTEAD, N.Y., Aug. 1, 2008 -- A large spill during the removal an oil tank from a Cruikshank Avenue basement created a hazardous condition last night and volunteers from the American Red Cross in Nassau County provided relief to those who were displaced.

A family of five was forced out of their home due to unsafe fumes. The Nassau Red Cross provided them with temporary shelter in a nearby motel. According to Bob Pollack, Red Cross volunteer, relief totaled $440.

All Red Cross disaster assistance is provided at no cost to those affected, thanks to the generosity of individuals who dontate their time or money to the nonprofit agency. In the past twelve months, the local chapter has responded to over 140 local incidents--mainly house fires--and has provided nearly $165,000 in relief to nearly 700 Nassau residents--a sixty percent increase over the previous year.

To learn how you can help the American Red Cross in Nassau County, visit the chapter online at www.nassauredcross.org or call (516) 747-3500.

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