Red Cross helping family of six who lost home in Beckley fire

By Amelia A. Pridemore
Register-Herald Reporter

November 17, 2007 09:44 pm

— A single mother and her five children are now homeless after a Thursday morning fire, but the local Red Cross chapter and concerned citizens are working to help the family back on its feet.
Sheri McGraw, director of communications and marketing for the Central West Virginia American Red Cross chapter, said the house on Scott Avenue in Beckley was deemed “uninhabitable” by firefighters. The family, including five children ranging in age from about 7 to 16, were left homeless.
The Red Cross, she said, stepped in to help. The family was offered multiple rooms at a hotel because of its size, but the mother said they could manage with one.
“They’re so grateful — not wanting to take advantage of anyone,” McGraw said.
They were also given coats and warm clothing. In about a week, the Red Cross will assist the family with relocating, also helping them with their first month’s rent. She noted the funds used to help the family come from the Red Cross’ public donations.
McGraw was especially grateful that the mother had apparently “drilled” the children on what they should do in case the house caught fire. Before the Thursday fire started, she had left for work but left the children instructions to catch their school bus at a neighbor’s house.
McGraw said those interested in helping this family should call Beckley Fire Chief Kevin Taylor at 256-1780.
— E-mail: apridemore@register-herald.com