Red Cross Sets Up Canteen For First-Responders
At Berkeley Heights Brush Fire

AREA (May 8, 2008) – With the help of the American Red Cross Colonial Crossroads Chapter and a generous local restaurant, fire crews and emergency personnel had access to food and drink the night of April 25 as they fought a brush fire that covered approximately four acres in Berkeley Heights.

Eight local Red Cross volunteers were on the scene for approximately three hours serving snacks, beverages and more than 150 meals provided free of charge by DeMaio’s Restaurant to first responders. Several volunteers staffed the canteen at 254 Killarney Drive, where fire crews were staging. Other volunteers specializing in health services and mental health canvassed the affected neighborhood and spoke with emergency personnel to assess any immediate or emergent needs.

All Red Cross disaster assistance is free and provided locally by the Colonial Crossroads Chapter, which serves the residents of Berkeley Heights, Chatham Borough, Chatham Township, East Hanover, Florham Park, Long Hill Township, Madison, New Providence, Springfield and Summit.

You can help the victims of local disasters by making a financial gift to the American Red Cross Colonial Crossroads Chapter. Donations enable the Red Cross to provide shelter, food, counseling and other assistance. Contributions may be sent to the chapter office in Summit (695 Springfield Ave., Summit, N.J. 07901) or in Madison (1 Madison Ave., Madison, N.J. 07940).

To find out more about the local Red Cross, how you can donate your expertise, time, money or blood; or to help your family, business, or community prepare for emergencies, visit www.ccnjredcross.org.