By Lauren Cappuccio

lcappuccio@publicopinionnews.com @LCappuccioPO on Twitter

FRANKLIN COUNTY >> The American Red Cross has been busier than ever over the last few months as cold weather and several fires have sent families looking for emergency help.

"Our primary purpose is to help our Franklin County residents and our Cumberland County residents with their immediate disaster needs," said Allen White Jr. emergency response specialist. "We want to make sure if they have been displaced, to make sure they have a roof over their heads, to have something to eat or clothing until either they deal with insurance companies or other types of agencies that can help."

White said Red Cross volunteers have been called out more this winter than past years.

"We have definitely seen an increase in activity this winter," White said. "In the past three weeks, we responded to six fires within Franklin County alone."

The Red Cross, a non-profit that provides disaster relief, heath services and international work, is summoned by emergency and fire personnel to fire scenes if they deem it necessary for residents to get assistance.

White said the local Red Cross has about 30 active disaster volunteers who take turns every week being on call when disasters, such as extreme flooding or hurricanes happen.

"In Franklin County, we have been quite fortunate," White said. "Other areas have seen things that are more extreme."

Carolyn Blackshire, Chambersburg, is a disaster team captain and has volunteered for four years.

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Red Cross helping more this winter with increased emergencies