Red Cross, Salvation Army team up to help Lebanon fire victims

(Harrisburg) -- A pair of nonprofits is heading up efforts to help more than a dozen people in Lebanon who were displaced after an apartment complex fire this week.

The American Red Cross Serving Central Pennsylvania is overseeing a temporary shelter at the Youth for Christ building in Lebanon after the fire on Cumberland Street forced 18 people out of their homes.

No one was injured.

Group Spokeswoman Kathy Smyser says it's an especially difficult time for people to face hardships. "This time of year, when everyone is so busy and there's so much bright happiness going on, I do think that a tragedy that happens then is more keenly felt."

Smyser says many of the displaced residents were able to recover clothing and other personal items.

The Salvation Army has also been helping out by providing meals for the families.

Smyser says she doesn't know how long the victims will stay at the shelter, but volunteers are on hand to help them decide on more permanent housing options.