DISASTER ASSISTANCE By the numbers

The American Red Cross of the Mahoning Valley was part of Saturday’s Feel the Heat demonstration at the Mahoning County Career and Technical Center in Canfield, which was to simulate what typically happens during house fires and their aftermath. Some facts and figures regarding the agency:

Ninety-one cents of every dollar raised goes to direct- client services.

The Red Cross receives no government funding.

Last year, the local agency provided free assistance to 337 fire victims at a cost of $67,156.

So far in 2014, 251 people have been so helped.

The Red Cross partners with 92 fire departments in Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties.

Close to 100 volunteers perform its daily duties. Of those, 35 respond to area disasters 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Money is raised through direct-mail appeals, foundation requests, corporations and individuals.

Source: American Red Cross of the Mahoning Valley