Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Saturday, December 14, 2024 76° Today's Paper


Top News

Red Cross emergency shelter closes, moves to Marco Polo

CINDY ELLEN RUSSELL / CRUSSELL@STARADVERTISER.COM

Red Cross volunteer Carole Kaapu assisted displaced Marco Polo residents with shelter registration at ‘Iolani School on Friday evening.

The Hawaii Red Cross’ temporary emergency shelter at ‘Iolani School closed this afternoon after serving more than 100 residents displaced by Friday’s fatal fire at the Marco Polo high-rise apartment building.

The Red Cross will continue to offer assistance to affected residents at a new on-site location at the Marco Polo, Monday through Friday from 6 to 8 p.m.

In the immediate aftermath of the fire, which killed three people and injured a dozen others, some 110 residents registered with the shelter. Most returned to their apartments once access was restored around 3:30 a.m. on Saturday; 11 people remained at the shelter overnight.

The shelter was empty on Saturday evening but Red Cross caseworkers remained on duty through this afternoon to provide casework assistance to anyone in need.

Coralie Matayoshi, CEO of the American Red Cross, Hawaii State Chapter, said most of the residents who initially sought shelter had renter’s or homeowner’s insurance and were able to find other accommodations by Saturday evening.

While the shelter was open, Red Cross volunteers provided more than 800 meals and snacks to residents and first responders; provided medical services and assistance to 120 people; and made more than 250 mental health contacts.

To make a contribution to the Red Cross, visit redcross.org/hawaii or call (808) 739-8109.

By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the Terms of Service. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our guidelines. Having trouble with comments? Learn more here.