ROCKVILLE CENTRE, N.Y., Feb. 1, 2009 -- Fire damaged two Brower Ave residences just after midnight and the American Red Cross in Nassau County provided assistance.

Both properties are owned by the same gentleman. The blaze destroyed a home that was under renovation. The heat of its flames caused minor damage to the neighboring property.

Because the utilities were shutoff in the second home, the Nassau Red Cross provided the homeowner with temporary shelter in a nearby motel, according to volunteer Rich Schneider.

Additionally, Red Cross volunteers provided first responders with warm beverages and snacks.

All Red Cross disaster assistance is provided at no cost to those affected, thanks to the generosity of individuals who donate their time or money to the nonprofit. To learn how you can help the Nassau Red Cross respond to incidents like this fire, logon to www.nassauredcross.org or call (516) 747-3500.

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