A series of fires in Rhode Island has exhausted the state Red Cross’ fund for emergency assistance.
CEO John Holt says the agency helped 247 people in December and January, compared with 133 people during the same period last year.
Since the Red Cross has spent its $130,000 relief budget to provide fire victims with food, clothing and shelter, it’s trying to get more donations.
Holt and firefighters blame space heaters for the recent rash of fires. They say more people are using the devices as the economy slips and fuel costs increase.
Information from: The Providence Journal
Copyright 2026 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Was this article valuable?
Here are more articles you may enjoy.
Acrisure to Cut 2,250 Employees, Citing Advances in Technology and AI 
First Brands Hit by $286 Million Claim for Alleged Tariffs Fraud 
Atlantic Hurricane Season Forecast Milder Than Normal Thanks to El Nino 
Florida Court Says 2020 Law Gives ‘Very Broad’ Liability Immunity to Rideshare Firms 
