It’s Been A Busy Winter So Far For The American Red Cross. Here’s How You Can Help Them Help Others.

Since the start of the year, the American Red Cross has helped hundreds of Mainers affected by fires and other disasters.

Just this past weekend alone, firefighters across the state battled frigid temperatures to fight fires all across Eastern Maine, including in communities like Orland and Dexter.

According to the American Red Cross of Northern New England, this weekend's fire in Dexter displaced 10 people.

"Our Disaster Action Team in Maine is assisting 9 adults and 1 child following a multi-family fire Saturday morning on Main St. in Dexter. We are providing financial assistance, disaster-related health services, comfort kits, blankets, teddy bears, and emotional support to help meet the immediate needs of the displaced residents."

Read More: Maine Winter Guide: 7 Proven Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Dan Dowling, Regional Communications Manager for the American Red Cross
Northern New England division says it's been a busy year for the organization in Maine.

"Since January 1st, 2025, the American Red Cross has responded to 263 home fires and assisted 859 individuals in the state of Maine. In the eastern Maine counties you specified, we have responded to 66 home fires and assisted 212 individuals since the start of the year...Single- and multi-family fires account for 90% of our disaster responses."

Not only does the Red Cross help folks find a safe place to stay when they're displaced by fire or natural disaster, but they can also help with things like food, clothing, and medication replacement, getting new eyeglasses or medical equipment if necessary, and with mental health or spiritual care for those affected by disasters.

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As a humanitarian organization, Red Cross services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, all year long, for free. But it takes volunteers and donations to keep this important organization going.

At this point in the year, Dowling says the organization has an urgent need for both those things.

"These critical volunteer positions enable us to carry out our lifesaving mission in Penobscot, Piscataquis, Waldo, Washington, and Hancock counties. Every day, people are forced from their homes due to fires, storms, and other disasters. From offering a caring and compassionate ear to meeting the immediate needs, such as lodging and clothing, of the displaced individuals, our volunteers ensure that families don’t have to face tough times alone. We supply all the training you need."

Dowling says anyone interested in volunteering with the American Red Cross locally can call 1-800-464-6692 or visit the website redcross.org/EndHomesFiresNNE.