A huge spike in house fires has left dozens of area residents without a home and the Red Cross asking for help.

According to a news release issued by the Midland Empire Chapter of the American Red Cross Tuesday the agency has responded to 17 house fires already during the month of November.

It has assisted the immediate needs of food clothing and shelter for 39 adults and 22 children.

That averages to one fire a day so far during the month of November.

Because of the record number of fires that volunteers have had to respond to around the clock to assist the agency is feeling a strain on funding available.

“It takes about $1500 to assist a family of four following a disaster such as a house fire,” Red Cross Ex. Dir. Angie Springs said. “In the winter months, that amount can be slightly more due to extra expenses of items such as winter coats.”

Because of so many fires in such a short period of time the agency is in need of assistance and is asking for donations to disaster response.

“We are not even into the heart of winter yet and can already feel the financial strain,” Springs said. “The American Red Cross relies solely on the generosity of the American people to provide disaster response and asks that you consider giving a gift that means something this holiday season by making a financial contribution to the Midland Empire Chapter for disaster response.”

For information regarding the American Red Cross or to help contact the American Red Cross at 816.232.8439.