Red Cross needs donations for families displaced by fires

The American Red Cross is still taking donations for Las Vegans who lost their homes in early-morning fires Wednesday, officials said.

Those who wish to donate food, clothing, money or toys are urged to call the Red Cross at 702-791-3311, or visit www.redcrosslasvegas.org.

All of the donations will go directly to the families who were displaced.

Red Cross officials said Wednesday that all of the displaced residents who sought out the Red Cross for assistance were able to find lodging.

Many of the residents of both the major apartment fires Wednesday — at Rainwalk Apartments at 1001 Dumont Blvd. and Rancho Verde apartment complex at 98 S. Martin L. King Blvd., were provided with lodging within their respective complex.

Others have chosen to stay with family or friends in the area, officials said. The Red Cross did not provide any families with money for shelter.

There were 14 families from Rancho Verde apartments who have received aid so far, and 17 families from Rainwalk Apartments.

Retailers from the Boulevard Mall, near Rainwalk Apartments, have already provided at least $9,000 in gift cards to displaced families.

Red Cross officials do expect to help additional families today, who may have been away from their homes when the fires took place.